Where it all began
In 2004, Andy Roberts joined the Armed Forces, where he spent many years. During his time, Andy acquired a wealth of transferable skills that would one day help him work across multiple sectors. After 10 years of service in the armed forces, in 2014 Andy decided it was time to move on and pursue different pastures. Andy quickly fell into construction and found that many of the skills he had acquired over his 10-year service, supported him in his new career. Andy tried his hand at several different projects, from domestic housing to commercial projects – he even obtained a Bricklaying qualification from the City and Guilds awarding body. Andy spent some time perfecting his craft and developing new skills. But little did he know he would soon be presented with an opportunity like no other.
An interest sparked
In 2022, Andy was working on a domestic renovation project when he began chatting to the property owner, an individual who worked for Siemens Gamesa. After several conversations, it was safe to say Andy’s interest in renewables was sparked. “I got to understand more about renewables and what it would be like to work in the industry. I really enjoyed learning about it. I wanted to learn more.” Andy said. Andy’s thirst for information grew as he began having more conversations with people in the industry, building on his knowledge and understanding. Whilst absorbing information and completing research, Andy became aware of Complete Training Solutions’ brand-new, Green Energy Skills Bootcamp.
The start of something new
In February 2022, Andy joined the first cohort of delegates to embark on their journey to a new career in renewables. The course comprises two modules, IRATA and GWO. Andy highlighted that while he found the Rope Access training challenging, he thoroughly enjoyed pushing the limits of his capabilities. He said; “The Rope Access training was a lot to take on board, but really interesting. Once I understood the equipment, my confidence grew and it became easier.” Andy praised Compete Training Solutions’ resident Rope Access instructor, Brian Robinson. “Brian was brilliant. He is very knowledgeable in the field and supported us every step of the way,” he said. Reflecting on his experience, Andy highlighted how wonderful it was to be a part of such a diverse group of learners.
He said; “It was a good group of lads, and each one had a unique background. We had someone from Finance, someone from Engineering, a real mix bag. It was brilliant to see how all those skills and personalities mixed.” But it wasn’t just his fellow learners and instructors who Andy appreciated, he outlined that Complete Training Solutions’ Head of Renewables, Danielle Kershaw, was a driving force in supporting him and the other learners to achieve. Andy said; “Danielle was so helpful and supportive, she really gave us the push and confidence to go into those interviews and do well. I can’t thank her and the team enough.” As part of the Green Energy Skills Bootcamp, Andy received employability training from Complete Skills Solutions. The employability training supported Andy to develop his interview skills and update his CV. As Complete Training Solutions’ sister company, Complete Skills Solutions is equipped with the tools, knowledge and industry expertise to support learners who are entering the wind industry.
New beginnings
Upon course completion, each delegate was given the opportunity to interview with a leading engineering organisation, Windtex. Just a few days after the interviews, Andy was offered a position as Wind Turbine Technician – news that was very much welcomed. Andy said; “I was thrilled when I found out I had been successful. It’s always daunting doing job interviews, especially when this industry relies on skills and knowledge, but I felt so prepared and ready thanks to the team at CTS.” Andy is looking forward to beginning his new career, where the sky is the limit. He plans to work his way up in the renewables industry and has huge ambitions for his future. When asked if he would recommend the Skills Bootcamp to others, Andy said; “100%. It is so worth it. You get all the training you need from industry experts and there is a guaranteed interview at the end, what more could you want?
“For anyone considering it, I would just say go for it! You won’t regret it.” Brad Hickman, Managing Director at Windtex Engineering Ltd said: “Recently we expanded our partnership with Complete Training Solutions to support with our business growth and recruitment needs. “We interviewed 11 out of 12 of the delegates and we were really impressed with the calibre. They had all been really well prepared and knew a lot about our company and the direction we are going in.”
