Case study 2

Case study 2 - Darren Boyle

Sector: Science and engineering
Name of company: Thales Optronics
Work area based: Govan, Glasgow
Individual name: Darren Boyle
Age: 20
Job title: Manufacturing Technician Apprentice
Home area: Alexandria
School/college/university: Vale of Leven Academy and Langside College
    
Career path
After attaining my standard grades at secondary school I began the quest to find permanent employment and was offered a position within the world leading manufacturing organisation of Thales.

During this time I have attained qualifications in both electronic and mechanical engineering via Langside College and have become a key member of the laser assembly manufacturing team working on all products processed.

What are the key skills used in your job?
I have to carry out a range of build and test activities that require good hand to eye co-ordination as well as a range of mental challenges in dealing with the issues that arise along the way.  The following engineering disciplines are embraced on a daily basis in my work place.
• Electronic Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Laser Physics

What are the biggest challenges in your job?
Maintaining the high volume output of the laser department that is a Lean Manufacturing environment, whilst maintaining the high standards required by my company and ultimately our customers.

What do you enjoy most about your job?
The challenge of applying all that I have learned during my four year training and study period and the fact that every day brings a new challenge. There are also exciting career opportunities for progression through the ranks of the company and the prospect of obtaining more qualifications.

What advice would you give to others interested in this type of work?
This is very much a specialist role within a specialist organisation; therefore only through hard work and dedication through school can you hope to join the apprenticeship scheme at Thales.

A day in the life of a Manufacturing Technician Apprentice
My working day commences at 7.30 with a morning meeting with my line manager to discuss the daily activities and determine which jobs are paramount. I then proceed to deliver the targets set for the day breaking only at 12:00 for a half hour lunch. The demands for the high quality laser products dictate that my working day can extend beyond the 4pm end of day.

Teacher placement
Would you like to find out more about these companies or this industry? A teacher placement is a great way to do this. To find out more about the national Excellence in Education through Business Links placement programme visit Careers Scotland.