Meet Jake Wood
Role: Mechanical Pipe Fitter
Programme: Trade apprenticeship
Project: NTT 1B Data Centre
Brief overview of your day-to-day responsibilities: I install pre‑fabricated pipework and torque bolts to the required settings to ensure correct and safe fixings.
What's something you do now that you couldn't do six months ago? I now have a proper understanding of how to torque flanges to specific settings.
What has been your proudest moment or biggest achievement so far? Achieving my Level 3 apprentice qualification has been my biggest achievement so far.
What made you want to go into your trade? I’ve always been hands‑on and creative, I’m looking forward to continuing to progress my career in the mechanical industry.
Why did you choose to join Laing O’Rourke as an apprentice? I chose Laing O’Rourke because they are a large, well‑known company. I had seen many of their projects across London and was excited to get the opportunity to contribute to future projects. I think the company gives you the chance to develop and progress within the organisation.
Do you have any tips or advice for people applying for a trade apprenticeship? Turn up every day with a positive attitude and be ready to put in a good day’s work. Communicating well with your colleagues and supervisors is also really important.
