Meet the Team: Apprentice Engineer Ollie Adams

After completing his NVQ Level 3, 19 year old Ollie Adams has officially joined the Rioned team full time. Over the course of his apprenticeship, he has developed practical engineering skills, gained hands-on experience in the workshop and played a growing role in vehicle conversions and machine builds.

We caught up with Ollie to talk about his apprenticeship, what he has learned from the team, the parts of the job he enjoys most and his advice for anyone considering a career in engineering.

How does it feel to have completed your NVQ Level 3 and joined Rioned full-time?

I’ve just finished my engineering practical theory course. I started at Rioned doing 1 day a week, then part-time for 2 days a week. Being full-time feels good. I much prefer it to college, though I still have a way to go yet. And it’s good to get on the job ladder.

What first interested you in this kind of work?

I’ve always been hands-on. When I was younger, I’d help my dad repair mechanical things, such as our lawn mower. I always liked fixing things and recently started working on my car. It has been good experience for this job.

What has been the biggest thing you’ve learned during your apprenticeship?

Probably hands-on experience on the job. I’ve learned a lot from Chris Hayward (Rioned Workshop Supervisor), and also Steve Ashley (Rioned Vehicle Technician / Auto Electrician). I really enjoy the electrical part of the work, particularly working on the van fitouts. Since starting work for Rioned, I’ve gained a lot of electrical skills.

Was there a moment where you thought, “I’m actually getting pretty good at this now”?

I’m thinking things through a lot more now. I can do things way better than I did before. I’ve learned to take my time. Before, I was rushing on jobs to try and get them finished. Now I think, even if it takes longer, it’s better to make sure it’s perfect.

What’s the best bit of advice someone at Rioned has given you?

Take your time. Think it through. It helps get the job right.

Is there a machine, tool or bit of kit you particularly enjoy working on?

I enjoy the van conversion work. And using an angle grinder because it’s fun. Outside of Rioned, I do a lot of work on cars for my friends. My girlfriend’s car recently failed its MOT, so I fixed all the failures so it could pass.

What would you say to someone thinking about doing an apprenticeship?

Just give it a go. You won’t know if you like it until you’ve tried it.

Outside of work, what do you like to do to switch off?

As I said, lots of mechanical jobs, and a bit of gardening. I like being outside. I also play football for my village team, Stoke Ferry. It’s a new team, and we are just starting out. I’m a left winger.