An engineering apprentice’s journey from T Level to HNC at College and SSIoT, combining college study with an apprenticeship at Thales.
Liam’s story is a progression through technical education and hands-on industry experience. When we first interviewed him in 2025, he was studying an Engineering T Level and gaining early workplace experience through a placement. Since then, he has progressed into an Engineering Manufacturing Technician apprenticeship with Thales in Crawley, alongside studying for an HNC in Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Crawley College. He is one of the first learners to study in the new Sussex & Surrey Institute of Technology (SSIoT) building, where he is combining college-based learning with hands-on experience in industry.
From T Level to apprenticeship
Liam’s route into engineering began with a T Level Maintenance Installation and Repair (Electrical/Electronic), which included a summer industry placement at Thales. That placement proved to be a key step, giving him early exposure to the workplace and helping him make informed decisions about his future.
The T Level helped Liam prepare for working life before committing to higher-level study, while also providing a strong foundation for progression. The combination of technical learning and real workplace experience confirmed that engineering was the right career direction and opened up opportunities to progress further. Summing it up, Liam said, “T Levels prepare you for working life before it all gets too serious.”
Progression and rotations at Thales
Liam’s apprenticeship has allowed him to experience different teams and products through a structured rotation programme. This has given him a broad understanding of how engineering work fits together across the business. Through these rotations, Liam has been able to build experience across different areas, increase his level of responsibility and develop independence over time.
Liam said, “The rotation is really key. You follow the product manufacturing cycle and you gradually step up, getting closer to the core products.”
Technical experience and problem-solving
During his placements, Liam has worked on testing and fault-finding across a range of systems, including radio frequency trays, radios and electrical cabinets. This has involved identifying faulty components, reprogramming and re-testing systems, and checking equipment against specifications.
Working on real products has helped Liam develop practical problem-solving skills and confidence in applying what he learns at college to real engineering challenges.
Studying for an HNC
Progressing onto the HNC has allowed Liam to develop his technical knowledge in greater depth. The course structure spreads learning across the year, making it manageable alongside work commitments. While balancing work and study can be challenging at times, Liam highlights the understanding and support he receives from the college. The HNC builds on earlier learning, revisiting core principles in more detail and preparing him for further progression.
Learning in the SSIoT building
Liam was one of the engineering student guests invited to the opening of the SSIoT building at the end of October 2025. Studying in the new hub has been an important part of Liam’s engineering experience. The modern facilities, specialist equipment and workshops reflect real industry environments, helping Liam apply what he learns at college directly to his apprenticeship.
Liam was enthusiastic about the new facility, saying: “The SSIoT building at Crawley College is really good. It is modern and well-equipped. It has powerful computers, CAD suites, CNC machines and large workshops. We don’t need to share equipment as much as we had to previously. It feels close to what you see in industry, which makes a big difference to how we learn.”
Support and future plans
Liam describes both Thales and the college as supportive environments, with strong teaching, clear guidance and a positive atmosphere among apprentices.
Looking ahead, Liam plans to complete his HNC before progressing to an HND and potentially a degree, continuing to build his expertise in electrical engineering. He hopes to continue his career with Thales if the opportunity is available.
When asked about his future plans, Liam said, “I’m aiming to go further into electrical engineering because that’s where I feel my skills and knowledge are most useful. What I’m learning now is relevant to the work I’m doing, and it feels like something that will continue to be useful for Thales now and in the future.”
If you are interested to know more, contact Tim Chester Williams, Head of Sales – SSIOT.
Email: tchesterwilliams@crawley.ac.uk. www.sussexsurreyiot.ac.uk