Marcus Walsh, Director at Ventilux, highlights the apprenticeship opportunities the company has championed with Hugh Baird College.

At Ventilux, we believe in building more than emergency lighting systems – we’re building careers, confidence and long-term futures. As an independent emergency lighting manufacturer, we’re proud to play a hands-on role in developing the next generation of electrical engineers. Incredibly, not one but three of our current employees have all been studying at Hugh Baird College, combining academic learning with real-world experience on-site. For us, apprenticeships are not a tick-box exercise. They are an essential part of how we grow our business, strengthen our team and invest in the industry’s future.

Daniel Bold, Reece Webb and Harry Adams are shining examples of why apprenticeships matter. Each of them is gaining practical, hands-on experience in live environments while contributing to high-profile projects across the UK – from Manchester Airport and historic London landmarks to major installations in Scotland.

Competence and confidence

Working on complex emergency lighting installations gives our apprentices invaluable exposure to real challenges: compliance, coordination with other trades, problem-solving on-site, and delivering to strict safety standards. This practical learning complements their college studies and accelerates both their technical competence and professional confidence.

By working with a respected local college, we’re able to align on training standards, ensure apprentices receive the right academic support, and maintain open communication about their development.

Les Simmons, Ventilux’s Installation and Service Supervisor and mentor to the apprentices, explains: “Ventilux is a family-run business that wanted to provide apprenticeships to local young people to grow the team. Working with a local college, such as Hugh Baird, is a great professional relationship.”

That partnership ensures apprentices benefit from structured learning in the classroom while developing practical skills under experienced supervision on-site.

Daniel Bold joined Ventilux in June 2024 after completing his Level 1 and 2 Diplomas at Hugh Baird College. He has quickly become a valued member of the team and describes Ventilux as a “supportive, nice, family-run team.” His progression demonstrates how apprenticeships can provide a clear pathway from education into meaningful employment.

Reece Webb began his apprenticeship in October 2024, transitioning from the Autocare sector. With no prior electrical experience, Reece brought determination and a strong work ethic. His rapid development highlights the accessibility of apprenticeships to those willing to learn and embrace a new career path.

Harry Adams, our newest apprentice, joined us after completing his Level 2 and 3 Diplomas. He has found a welcoming, growth-focused environment where he can continue to build on his qualifications while gaining valuable site experience.

The electrical and emergency lighting sectors face ongoing skills shortages. For independent manufacturers like Ventilux, the solution isn’t simply to recruit talent – it’s to create it.

Fresh perspectives

By nurturing apprentices from the start of their careers, we’re not only strengthening our own team but also contributing to the wider industry. Apprentices bring fresh perspectives, enthusiasm and a willingness to embrace new technologies. In return, we provide mentorship, structured development and the opportunity to work on prestigious, technically demanding projects.

As a family-run business, we take pride in creating a supportive environment where young professionals can grow, make mistakes, learn and ultimately thrive. For Ventilux, apprenticeships aren’t just about today’s workforce. They’re about ensuring that the next generation of engineers is skilled, confident and ready to uphold the highest standards in safety and compliance. By investing in people now, we’re helping to secure a stronger future for our business – and for the industry as a whole.

For more on this topic, click here

Catch up on previous ‘Soapbox’ articles here

The post How is Ventilux and Hugh Baird College shaping future electrical engineers? | Soapbox appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.