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At Gibbons Engineering Group, apprenticeships have always been at the heart of our business. As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2026, we’re proud to recognise the people who have built successful, long-term careers with us after starting their journeys as apprentices, and to reaffirm our ongoing commitment to developing the next generation of engineering talent.
From workshop specialists to senior engineers and managers, apprenticeships have shaped not only individual careers but also the strength and expertise of our entire organisation.
A Tradition of Engineering Excellence
Many members of our current engineering team began their careers through apprenticeships, gaining hands-on experience, technical knowledge, and practical skills that continue to benefit our customers today.
Kevin Shakespeare, now Workshop Manager in our Rewinds and Repairs workshop, completed his apprenticeship more than 45 years ago. His career progression reflects the long-term opportunities apprenticeships provide, with decades of experience that is evident in the quality of the rewinds and repairs service we provide.
Our Senior Mechanical Engineer, Michael Beck, is a key part of our HVAC team. Mike completed his apprenticeship while working on the job, developing the practical expertise and technical understanding that have made him an integral part of our operations.
Supporting our electrical services, Charlie Leavett, our Electrical Engineer, has recently completed his Installation Electrician and Maintenance Electrician apprenticeship. His achievement highlights the value of structured training combined with real-world experience.
We’re also proud to support those currently developing their careers. Junior Electrical Engineer Dan Locke is undertaking an electrician’s apprenticeship at college while working part-time at Gibbons, gaining valuable industry experience alongside his studies.
Long-Term Careers Built Through Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships at Gibbons Engineering Group often lead to long-term career progression within the company.
Contracts Manager Richard Mooney began his journey with Gibbons as a teenager through an apprenticeship and has remained with the business ever since, building a successful career and playing a vital role in our continued growth.
Similarly, Ben Frost completed his electrician’s apprenticeship and now works within our HVAC team, applying his knowledge to deliver support to the HVAC team.
Apprenticeships at Gibbons extend beyond engineering roles. Marketing Executive Jude Hobden completed his marketing apprenticeship in 2023, demonstrating how vocational learning pathways support a wide range of professional careers across the organisation.
A Culture of Learning and Development
Our commitment to apprenticeships runs throughout the business, with many of our directors also beginning their careers through apprenticeship routes. This shared experience has helped shape a company culture that values continuous learning, professional development, and practical skills.
As we mark National Apprenticeship Week 2026, we celebrate the dedication and achievements of our team members past and present. Their journeys demonstrate how apprenticeships create meaningful careers, strengthen businesses, and support the future of UK engineering.
At Gibbons Engineering Group, we remain committed to supporting learning at every stage, from first-day apprentices to experienced professionals, ensuring our people, and our business, continue to thrive.
For more information on Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week 2026 talk to Gibbons Engineering Group Ltd