At Flint Technology Services, we’re proud to join the celebration of National Apprenticeship Week, reflecting on our longstanding commitment to developing the next generation of technology professionals.
Over the years, we’ve welcomed multiple cohorts of apprentices into our organisation, each bringing fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to our team.
Being an employee-owned business, our employee’s voices matter to us. So, we invited a few of them to reflect on their experiences and share some insights they’ve gained throughout their journey with us so far, in celebration of National Apprenticeship Week.
Building Tomorrow’s Tech Leaders
Michael joined us in 2019, completing his apprenticeship after two years which had a focus on Network Engineering but also included Cyber Security, Linux and more.
As part of his apprenticeship, Michael obtained certifications such as CompTIA A+, Server+, and Network+. Later in his journey he decided to upskill in other areas and gained some advanced certifications, including CCNA and CKA.
He felt that completing an apprenticeship gave him a well-balanced mixture of structured learning and hands on experience, providing an important balance where theoretical knowledge he had gained through his studies became increasingly valuable when applied to real-world tasks over time.
As he progressed in his apprenticeship, he felt that practical work experience became even more important in reinforcing what he had learned.
Michael says:
“This apprenticeship was a pivotal experience in my life, opening the door to a career in IT and allowing me to do what I love.”
The Evolution to a Skilled Professional
Our apprenticeship programme stands as a testament to our belief that learning and development are fundamental to both individual growth and business success. We’ve witnessed first-hand how apprentices evolve from newcomers to skilled professionals, contributing meaningfully to our projects and client solutions.
Hector joined us in 2021 and completed his apprenticeship in just over 2 years. On completion, Hector was thrilled to receive a Distinction in his Level 4 Network Engineering qualification and has decided to further increase his skills by working towards a Cisco CCNA qualification, which he is currently undertaking.
He feels that his apprenticeship provided him with a strong foundation in networking and security, ultimately leading to proficiency in working with Palo Alto firewalls. Throughout the apprenticeship, he gained a range of valuable skills that have been essential in his role as a Firewall Engineer, such as configuring & managing Palo Alto firewalls, utilising various features for advanced security policies, using Panorama for centralised management and maintenance of multiple firewalls, troubleshooting network and security issues using packet captures and traffic logs.
Hector found that hands-on experience with the physical installation of networking equipment provided him with invaluable practical experience in understanding the hardware aspect of networking.
Hector says:
“The apprenticeship helped me develop strong communication skills, particularly when working with customers. I gained experience explaining technical concepts in a clear and professional manner, whether assisting with troubleshooting, discussing network requirements, or providing recommendations. Being able to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders has been essential in my role as a Firewall Engineer.”
The Benefits Speak for Themselves
The impact of our apprenticeship programme extends well beyond our organisation. Our customers benefit directly from the innovation and fresh perspectives that our apprentices bring to their projects.
By pairing seasoned professionals with apprentices who embrace emerging technologies and methodologies, we deliver solutions that blend proven expertise with cutting-edge approaches.
Our apprentices’ natural digital fluency enables them to spot automation opportunities and efficiency gains that directly benefit customer operations. Through their rigorous training, apprentices develop a holistic understanding of both technical implementations and business objectives, allowing them to propose solutions that address immediate needs while supporting long-term strategic goals.
This comprehensive development approach means our customers receive support from professionals who can translate technical concepts into business value, streamline processes, and adapt quickly to evolving requirements.
Furthermore, our apprentices’ enthusiasm for learning new technologies keeps our entire team of employee owners at the forefront of industry developments, ensuring our customers always have access to optimal solutions and best practices.
Our Commitment to Bridging the Gap
Our current apprentices are already making their mark, working alongside experienced team members and bringing new ideas to the table. Their journey from classroom learning to hands-on experience exemplifies our commitment, as an employee-owned trust (EOT), to bridging the gap between education and industry needs.
Kasim started his apprenticeship with us in December 2023, studying to become a Network Security Engineer.
He is currently working towards several certifications, including Network+, Security+, and Pentest+, along with the Level 4 certificate and is due to complete this in July 2025.
He feels that the programme has been incredibly beneficial, allowing him to effectively train and to balance his studying course material whilst attending lectures, and completing practical tasks such as installing and updating systems, which has significantly supported his day-to-day role at Flint TS.
Kasim says:
“Looking forward, I am excited about continuing to apply what I have learned and gaining more hands-on experience in network security.”
Raheem joined us just after Kasim, in January 2024, is studying a Level 4 qualification in Cyber Security Technologist: Engineer pathway which include certifications such as Network+, Security+ and Sandvine, and is due to complete this in January 2026.
He feels that the apprenticeship has enhanced his skills and knowledge, challenging him with different tasks and providing him with a greater understanding of his job role. Understanding the theory behind the role has given him a fantastic knowledge base to apply when tasked with configuring and installing devices and/or systems.
Raheem says:
“Being an apprentice has helped me gain confidence at a gradual pace with reduced pressure, due to everyone understanding that I am still learning. Sufficient time is provided to gather knowledge and expand on it, which can be applied back to the work I do.”
Looking ahead, we remain committed to nurturing talent through apprenticeships in our EOT.