Jack Goundrey is calling on more youngsters to seek apprenticeships in the renewable energy sector after a whirlwind six months in his new role.
The 18-year-old from Holywell was set to study computer science at university until he discovered a degree apprenticeship opportunity with specialist onshore wind energy developer, Wind2.
Headquartered in Mold, Wind2 appointed Jack as an apprentice development engineer, who attends the office four days a week with one day at Wrexham Glyndŵr University.
Jack, who went to sixth form at Ysgol Maes Garmon, believes the qualifications and skills he is gaining will provide him with ‘a green job’ for life.
He said: “My Welsh Baccalaureate lessons during sixth form focused heavily on renewable energy, so it developed my interest in the industry and provided a strong foundation for me when I started my degree apprenticeship.
“The move to net zero is critical to our planet and building my knowledge and expertise on the topic means I am all set for the future.
“After three years I’ll have a degree and impressive work experience, which means the decision to apply was a no brainer.”
Reflecting on his lessons at Wrexham Glyndŵr, Jack particularly enjoys studying future energy systems and gaining more knowledge on how wind farms work and comparing them to other types of renewable energy.
As part of the course, he is also developing his digital skills, using industry standard software such as computer aided design (CAD) to support with understanding how to assess the sustainability of systems and making improvements for development.
Jack relishes the fact he chose a career in sustainability which will afford him plenty of key skills in a growing industry, and he’s looking forward to learning even more about the sector.
He added: “I’ve settled in well at Wind2. It’s such a positive and friendly working environment where every team member is a fantastic mentor to me.
“My day-to-day involves carrying out research for new locations for onshore wind farms and attending company meetings, which help me learn the jargon, as well as going out to site visits.
“My advice to other young people thinking about their career paths is if you’re not 100 per cent set on going to university, consider an apprenticeship as an alternative.”
Wind2, which employs more than 30 people, has a portfolio of wind, solar and energy parks in development across Wales, Scotland and England.
Chris Thomas, Technical Director at Wind2, said: “It is so important to foster young careers, especially in the renewable energy sector, as more skills are needed in the industry to support the drive to net zero.
“Jack provides a fresh perspective at Wind2, as he applies what he is learning at university, to his day-to-day responsibilities.
“I started my career with West Coast Energy (formerly owned and founded by the founders of Wind2) on a graduate placement after finishing university. It’s fantastic to see how apprenticeships have developed, and I know If I’d had the same opportunity as Jack, I would have definitely considered it.
“This National Apprenticeship Week we’re celebrating his incredible tenacity and attitude to his role. Jack’s passion for the industry really shines through, making him a welcome asset on the team.
“We are excited to see him progress and flourish even more as he takes on more responsibility at the company.”
