What does a Mechanical operations apprentice do? 

I work in Maltesers. In my role I run a line as well as the people around me. By running a line, we mean making sure all the machinery is working and running well or fixing the machines when they break down in a reactive manner, by producing what my line is required to make in that day (we make 104,000kg of Maltesers a day). Making sure my team are being safe and that we minimise the risk of food safety issues. 

What advice would you give to someone thinking of pursuing this career? 

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. People see this as you wanting to learn so you will gain a lot of respect from those around you. Don’t be afraid to be yourself, there’s a reason you’re the youngest person in that room. 

What’s the best thing about your job? 

My team, by working long hours you build a family like bond with those around you. We see each other at our lows when everything is going wrong and we haven’t slept well. But we also see each other at highs through mad half hours at 3am, We understand who everyone in our team is strengths/weaknesses the whole lot. Also, free chocolate! 

Where do you see yourself in five years’ time? 

I would love to work in some sort of team leader role but that would be more than five years. My dream in 5 years is too be a fully trained well respected lead operator. One of those that when someone asks a question, someone else goes, ‘Ask Sandie, she will be able to help’. 

If you could give your 16-year-old self some career advice, what would it be? 

It doesn’t matter if you don’t know what you want to do right now. Your career isn’t a path, it’s a map. If you don’t like the road you're on, you can get off and take a new road. Just make sure it’s something you love!