Liam Burnett

When Liam left school he thought his career would lie in IT and he enrolled in a course in Computing at NESCol.

Liam said: “Early into the course I just felt that computing wasn’t for me. The course focused on software and I was more interested in the hardware side so I decided to change direction. I knew that I liked working with my hands so I thought I would try engineering and enrolled onto the Performing Engineering Operations course. I was surprised at how much I enjoyed it, especially the Computer Aided Design unit, as I am rubbish at drawing, but it was really fun!

“I wanted to progress and gain my HND in Mechanical Engineering but realised that I needed to build up my Maths first, so I completed my NC Level 5 and 6 before gaining my HND qualification. I wanted to specialise in CAD so started looking for jobs in this area.”

Liam was then introduced to L&N Scotland via College lecturers and he was invited for an interview as a Trainee Design Engineer. After a trial period Liam was signed up as a Modern Apprentice. As he had already completed the College based elements of the qualification (PEO, NC and HND) he then had to complete the work-based SVQ Level 3, which required him to build a portfolio of evidence based on his day to day role.

Liam is responsible for the CAD design of small bore control pipe work, clamping and fixtures for large sub sea oil production manifolds and Christmas trees.

He said: “I completed my SVQ over two years as Covid meant that I was based at home for a large part of 2020. I am delighted that I have achieved my apprenticeship – it was important to me to gain a work-based qualification. I enjoy my work as a Design Engineer, and as part of a small team I am expanding my knowledge all of the time.”