Name: Romario Steel-Richardson
Job title: Installation Electrician
Project: Data Centre, London
Brief overview of your day-to-day responsibilities:
My day-to-day responsibilities include installing containment for electrical circuits which provide power and lighting to pivotal client projects. This involves working with materials such as metal conduit, ladder rack, tray, trunking and basket. To ensure the installation of these materials are correct, I follow the instructions of printed drawings and diagrams, as well as guidance from my supervisors.
What skills have you learned since starting your apprenticeship?
Although a lot of my work may seem repetitive there's always something new to learn and skills to develop. I'd say one of my skills that has significantly improved over the past six months is my ability to bend and form conduit over obstacles.
What has been your proudest moment or biggest achievement so far?
One of my biggest achievements has been completing my apprenticeship despite some initial setbacks. I am now fully qualified and have been able to increase my earnings by taking on more responsibilities.
What made you want to go into your trade?
When I left school, I wanted to do something where I could earn money while continuing to learn. An elder suggested an apprenticeship which strongly appealed to me.
Why did you choose to join Laing O’Rourke as an apprentice?
A friend of mine talked highly about a company they had worked for and the invaluable experience they gained there, Laing O'Rourke. I was impressed by the company's values and culture after researching Laing O'Rourke myself. This incited my application for an apprentice electrician role.
Do you have any tips or advice for people applying for a trade apprenticeship?
My advice for anyone unsure about what to do after school or at any point in life, is to do an apprenticeship. It allows you to constantly develop new skills in an environment where you will grow and be positively challenged. I am yet to regret making the decision.
