Jacek's story

Interested in finding out what it is like to learn via an apprenticeship? Some of our previous and current apprentices share their experiences on working for James Walker whilst undertaking qualifications.

Name: Jacek Baranowski
Role: Quality Control Supervisor

My name is Jacek Baranowski and my position is Quality Control Supervisor at James Walker. I am based at our manufacturing site in Bingley, UK.

I had the privilege of participating in a Quality Practitioner Level 4 apprenticeship program with the business throughout 2021-2023 and I can confidently say that it has been a transformative experience for me. Under the guidance of experienced mentors, I was able to explore the intricacies of Quality Assurance and Lean Six Sigma, gaining hands-on experience and invaluable knowledge that simply cannot be obtained through traditional education alone.

The structured nature of the apprenticeship allowed me to progressively build my skills and confidence in a real-world setting, and the feedback I received from my mentors was instrumental in my growth. I appreciated the opportunity to work alongside professionals who were genuinely invested in my development, and their support and guidance were fundamental to my success.

Through this apprenticeship, not only did I manage to hone my technical abilities, but I feel like I also developed some crucial soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. I am immensely grateful for the doors this experience has opened for me, and I am now equipped with the expertise and confidence to pursue a rewarding career in Quality Engineering.

Before I started my qualification, I had heard people talk about apprenticeships and how they offer a unique and effective pathway to gain practical skills as well as professional and industry knowledge, and this was certainly my experience. For anyone about to enter the workforce or even thinking about transitioning into a new career, an apprenticeship is worth considering.

I wholeheartedly recommend my apprenticeship program (which was provided by the Qualitrain team) to anyone seeking a dynamic and immersive learning experience. It truly has the potential to shape the trajectory of your professional journey in the most positive and impactful ways.