Pathways Training at NPTC Group of Colleges is proud to be inspiring the engineers of tomorrow through its recent engagement with Year 10 and Year 11 pupils at Newtown High School, showcasing the exciting and rewarding opportunities available through an engineering apprenticeship.
The session was led by Theressa Mullinder, from Pathways Training, alongside former apprentice Piers Gaspar, whose career journey is a powerful example of where an apprenticeship can lead. Piers began his engineering apprenticeship with Pathways Training over four years ago, supported by Carpenter & Paterson Ltd, based in Welshpool, while completing his Level 2 Performing Engineering Operations (PEO) qualification.
Piers shared how his commitment and ambition saw him go above and beyond his core studies, completing nine industry-recognised coded welding qualifications alongside his Engineering Technologies training. This achievement earned him “Coded Welder” status, marking him as a highly skilled and in-demand professional within the engineering industry.
Building on this strong foundation, Piers progressed to work for Technocover Ltd based in Welshpool, contributing to major national infrastructure and security projects. His work included projects for Hinkley Point C Power Station, nuclear naval bases, the MI5 Headquarters in London, prisons, laboratory doors and specialist manhole covers. During this time, Piers also successfully completed his Level 3 Engineering Apprenticeship, further strengthening his technical expertise.
In October 2025, at just 25 years old, Piers took the next step in his career by beginning a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering at Harper Adams University based in Shropshire. He spoke enthusiastically to pupils about his university studies, including redesigning a drone and tackling real-world engineering challenges through innovative problem-solving.
The visit proved to be an inspiring and interactive experience, giving pupils the opportunity to ask questions, hear first-hand about life as an apprentice, and see the long-term career potential that engineering offers. Pathways Training continues to champion apprenticeships as a powerful pathway into skilled, well-paid, and future-focused careers, helping young people turn ambition into achievement.
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