Luis, age 23, believes that too many people spend time at university studying a specific subject matter only to never use that knowledge again. Having achieved nine GCSEs and two A Levels he decided upon an apprenticeship scheme with BTEssex and London North East (Romford). Luis’ father spent 20 years with the company and enjoyed a successful career. Luis is therefore hoping to emulate this by following in his father’s footsteps. He is now approaching graduation from his apprenticeship and has recently had a project named after him to award him for all his hard work. “Project Segui” is a commission BT placed with the Royal College of Art, which looks at the future of broadband devices for the elderly.

The apprenticeship scheme entails three years development from on the job training to off the job classroom lecturing. You are given a real chance to test out many carer paths and get a real feel for the products that BT offers. The first year is mainly spent travelling the country on many different training courses, from internal wiring to climbing poles. The BTEC in Telecoms and NVQ both start in the first year too, so there’s a lot to keep you busy. The second year provides an opportunity to put your newly learnt skills into practice in the field. The second and third years also provide further opportunities to shine as you get to study a course of your choice at a local college.

There has been so much I’ve enjoyed – the list is endless! How about running the telephone lines for the Arts Festival in Regents Park, standing on stage at Live8 before the performers arrived, seeing my mum’s face light up when I turned up in a brand new company van, and graduating with an HND? However, nothing could beat spending two months at BT Vision acting as an assistant project manager for a new product that is yet to launch. To be at the cutting edge in terms of innovative technology that consumers have yet to see is a privilege.

My biggest challenge has been completing an HNC within one year and following this immediately with an HND in business and HRM, passing with Merits and Distinctions respectively. I am the first BT apprentice to attempt this and following my success many other apprentices are studying to achieve the same. This is a real landmark for BT’s apprenticeship scheme. 

The skills gained and the developments achieved are second to none and far more valuable, I believe, than going to university.

I achieved many qualifications - a BTEC in Telecoms, NVQ Level 3 in Telecoms and systems, an HNC in Business studies and an HND in Business and HRM.

I would advice people considering an apprenticeship to embrace the opportunity as the skills and qualifications will set you up for life. Development is the sole purpose of the scheme – a prosperous future lies ahead of any apprentice.