Lee Baker – Electro Technical apprentice

Name: Lee Baker
Age: 31
Apprenticeship: Electro Technical
Employer: Newcastle United Football Club

How did you find an employer?

I’d worked for Newcastle United before; I worked in catering there for ten years. I had left to take up a job at Durham County Cricket Club but I found that I wanted to move out of the catering business. Contacts at St James’ told me about some general maintenance jobs at the club and I decided to come back. I was working with the electricians a lot and they suggested that I look for some formal electrical training. I went to Newcastle College and asked about the courses on offer and one of the things they recommended was an Apprenticeship. I actually didn’t think that I could be an apprentice; I thought they were just for under 25’s. I was made up when I found out that I could do something that let me learn while I earned.

What day-to-day jobs do you perform?

As part of a five-week maintenance schedule, I check the generators at St James and test emergency lighting. The team undertakes maintenance, not only at St James, but also at the club’s training ground in Benton and at the retail outlets at Eldon Square, Monument and the MetroCentre so the work is always really varied.

What are your career ambitions?

I want to get fully qualified. There’s a good working environment here at St James so, hopefully, I’ll be able to stay here.

What would you say to individuals that were considering Apprenticeships as a way to develop their career?

I’d definitely recommend Apprenticeships as a way-in to a trade. There’s no way, three years ago, I would have seen myself doing this, especially at my age but the Apprenticeship programme has opened new doors for me.

What advice would you give to people that are looking to find an employer to put them through an Apprenticeship?

You have to take the initiative. Because I was a bit older when I decided to make a change, I was a bit more confident and knew a few more people than someone just starting out would. I’ve been massively fortunate in finding a good employer.