Yesterday we had the privilege of hosting senior management and apprentices from Group Metropolitan at our Nottinghamshire headquarters as part of National Apprenticeship Week #NAW2025. This visit provided an excellent opportunity to showcase our facilities and foster meaningful engagement between their apprentices and our own AF apprentices.
The Group Metropolitan team embarked on an early journey from London, arriving at our headquarters by 9 AM. The day’s agenda was carefully curated to provide a comprehensive and enriching experience. One of the key activities involved a collaborative group task, where apprentices from both companies worked together to develop teamwork and problem-solving skills.
A highlight of the visit was a session with our Engineering Director, Steve Garrard, who began his own career as an apprentice at AF Switchgear. Steve shared his inspiring journey from apprentice to director, offering valuable insights into career progression within the industry.
This was followed by a hands-on practical training session using our assessment panels, giving apprentices the opportunity to apply their technical skills in a real-world setting.
After lunch, both AF Switchgear and Group Metropolitan proudly announced their respective Apprentice of the Year awards. This prestigious recognition celebrates outstanding achievement and is a significant milestone for both companies.
The visit concluded with a comprehensive facility tour, led by our Group Technical Director, Mark Nutt, providing guests with a deeper understanding of our operations, capabilities, and commitment to excellence in engineering and apprenticeship development.
We thoroughly enjoyed hosting Group Metropolitan and we look forward to nurturing the next generation of skilled professionals.
Our Apprentice of the Year Award for 2024 winner was Elliott Allen. Elliott is currently a year 2 student having joined the company following a number of years working on site where he became interested in electrical work. Elliott said following his award:
‘I have learned a lot in the short time with AF Switchgear. The progress that I have made would not be possible without the support of my mentor, who took the time to ensure I understood what I was doing, as well as my team leaders who found me suitable work to challenge me and expand my knowledge further, along with many others on the shop floor. I am grateful to work with so many individuals who are willing to nurture, not just my, but every apprentices willingness to learn’.
Elliott has made quite an impact both at Vision West Nottinghamshire College and in the workplace.
A huge well done to Elliott and we wish him all the best with the remainder of his Apprenticeship with AF Switchgear and lets not forget a big thank you to all our apprentices for their hard work and contribution.
Pictured is Elliott with Mike Ratcliffe receiving his award and both AF Switchgear.
