What our clients and previous trainees say…
“When I finished school, I decided to stay on at 6th Form. I heard about TTE Training from a friend and decided to apply for an apprenticeship.
Since joining TTE in September 2004, I have learnt a lot of new things. I have particularly enjoyed instrumentation.
One of the highlights so far, was going on the residential course, this really showed me the importance of working in a team.
I am really glad I decided to take this opportunity.”
Craig Taylor – Intake 2004
“As Testiment to our Training, Pete Wilson and Nick Jackson of the 1991 Intake came in during the Induction of our 2004 intake, to share with them their experiences having completed their training with TTE.
Both Peter and Nick, gave up their own time, on holiday leave to come in to TTE. Peter now works as a Control Systems Engineer working overseas, and Nick works more locally, on the North Sea Oil Rigs as a senior operator. My thanks to both of them.”
Frank Rogers (TTE Training Officer)
“Having completed some of the personal development training, I feel that I am now more confident to take on challenges that previously I would have been afraid to.”
Gary Haydock – Intake 1999
“Key things I learnt from the phase 1 residential event are – How to work as a team, and the importance of giving support and encouragement, and how to communicate effectively. I found the whole TTE experience really enjoyable, I learnt a lot and had a good laugh. It was worth it. Now I am a technician at Ineos Chlor.”
Ian Kelly – Intake 2000
“I started TTE in 1991, later streaming in to Power & Control. Sponsored by ICI, initially at the Grange Centre in Ellesmere Port, my on-site experience was gained at the Runcorn & Widnes works. During my time at the Grange I won the much coveted ‘Apprentice of the Year’ award and the college ‘Student of the Year’ award. I gained ONC, HNC & NVQ 3 qualifications in the power & control areas.
Following completion of TTE, the Widnes Experimental site (no longer exists!) became my home for the next 3 years, employed by ICI in the role of E/I Technician for 12 months, Plant Operative for 18 months and Shift Leader for 6 months, before the site closed down and I searched for another job.
In 1998 I commenced a new career with Calor Gas, funnily enough, at Ellesmere Port, as Plant Manager. At that time I managed a mixed team of operatives and technical people of around 40. In 2001 I became northwest Customer Engineering Manager and Distribution Manager in addition to the Plant Manager role. Always one for a challenge! In recognition of this (and some serious hard work and company best results) I later took promotion to Regional Operations Manager (Yorkshire, East Riding & Lincolnshire) in 2002, having managed a team of well over 100.
In September 2004, I left Calor Gas to start my own company called Levland Limited – which offers a broad range of Audio/Visual and Electrical services. So far the company is heading the right way with promising forecasts. That means I have to work hard on the tools again to build the business, but I hope to expand in terms of employees over the coming years. What makes Levland different from other companies is the ability to offer the complete service from consultation through design to install. We specialise in bespoke high quality multi-room audio/visual systems for the domestic and commercial customer. See our website www.levland.com to get an idea.
Most enjoyable about TTE was the spirit of enjoyable learning, responsibility and never being afraid to ask questions. It was hard work at a relentless pace, but being committed, I got much satisfaction from it. My fellow students and the mix of Training Officers always ensured no two days were the same. Has TTE helped me get where I am today? Yes, for sure. It has given me a sound start with a blue chip company that has added strength to my credibility, CV and other employers. Coupled with my qualifications and on site experience I feel confident and positive about the directions my career has taken, and am sure it will stay with me for the rest of my life. Combine all this with my actual career and personal experiences over the last 10 years since TTE, and I feel that I have benefited from all that to be where I am today.”
Simon McFarland – Intake 1991
“I left TTE as a trained and qualified Mechanical Fitter, I was then recruited by Pruftechnik, a small but rapidly expanding engineering maintenance company, operating in Germany and UK.
Within 12 months I was promoted to Senior Technician, specialising in hi-tech Laser alignment of rotating machinery.
I was then sponsored and supported by the company to become qualified as a H & S practitioner before being appointed UK Safety Advisor. I attribute much of my success to developmental training received at TTE.”
Ben Gibson
“G’day! Firstly to introduce myself, I’m Simon Flanagan, I enrolled at TTE back in 1991 for the second intake after the opening of the combined training college in 1990. TTE for me was the beginning and foundation that has enabled me to get to where I am now.
After completing my 4 year apprenticeship, and 3 years on site at Brunner Mond, I then progressed into designing systems/plants for the water industry, chemical industry and nuclear industry. From here I moved onto engines mainly designing for Royal Naval fleets all over the world.
In 2003 I returned to my roots in the water industry and became a project Manager for a company called WEDECO that designs ultraviolet dosing plants. WEDECO is based all over the world from the UK, to the USA, to Australia, which brings me to where I am now, Sydney Australia. I am currently the Contracts Manager for WEDECO AU and enjoying life in the sun.
I have always remembered two very important lessons along the way. The first being we work to live not live to work. The second and more importantly, Work Hard Play Hard. You can achieve anything that you put your mind to especially when it comes to work. I have always set my sights high and I’ll work hard to achieve what I want in my career and I have not finished yet.
All this could not have been possible without the solid foundations given to me by the extremely talented Training Officers and Staff at TTE. I enjoyed every minute that I spent at TTE and when you look back on all the training aspects that they covered, not just technically to do with the trade, but personal development programs and self awareness, I would do it all over again.
Thank You to all the Staff”
Simon Flanagan – Intake 1991