National Apprenticeship week 2026
Learning doesn’t stop when a career begins — it evolves with it.
At Sterling Thermal Technology Ltd, apprenticeships are a long-term investment in people, skills, and future capability. We are exceptionally proud of our long-standing tradition of investing in the development of apprentices. Whether starting out, changing direction, or building advanced expertise, apprenticeships help create a confident, skilled, and resilient workforce.
During National Apprenticeship Week, we celebrate every apprentice taking steps towards their future, every mentor sharing knowledge, and every employer investing in talent. Together, we’re shaping careers, strengthening industries, and creating real opportunities through learning at work.
Working alongside students from Milton Keynes College, we see first-hand how real-world experience accelerates growth, builds confidence, and prepares people for long-term careers.
At Sterling Thermal Technology Ltd we are pleased to shine the light on our apprenctices. Below is an excerpt of interviews conducted on 2 of our apprenctices – Wilfred Howe and Jack Atkinson.
Apprentice Spotlight:
Wilfred Howe — Apprentice (3yrs 6 months), Motorbike Enthusiast
Proudest moment: Being selected to work on a live project in Norway for a key customer with global footprint and strategic relevance — gaining first-hand international project experience.
Biggest learning impact: Understanding the reality of apprenticeships — real responsibility, real expectations, and real career progression.
Describe the support & development: Strong support from mentors and former apprentices who invest time in sharing knowledge. Developed discipline, professionalism, and practical life skills — seeing this as a career, not just a job.
What’s next: Continuing to build fabrication and tooling expertise. I see Sterling Thermal Technology Ltd as a strong place to grow long-term and values the constant encouragement and learning opportunities.
Jack Atkinson — Apprentice (6 months), Motorbike Enthusiast
Why choose apprenticeship: Wanted to move beyond the classroom into hands-on, real-world experience. A summer placement confirmed it was the right path.
Most valuable skill learned: Adapting to different working styles and learning from experienced colleagues and former apprentices.
Biggest industry surprise: How transferable skills are — especially when working with evolving and advanced technology.
Confidence growth: Taking ownership of work and becoming comfortable in different working environments.
Advice to others: Take the opportunity. Real experience teaches lessons you can’t learn in a classroom — and it supports college learning too.
Apprenticeships don’t just build skills — they build confidence, careers, and future industry leaders.