Phillip Crummey, GES Group
IET member Phillip Crummey is a newly qualified Electrical Engineer for GES Group. Below, he shares his career path so far, and why he believes the apprenticeship route is so beneficial for those looking to pursue a career in engineering.
What inspired you to become an engineer?
When choosing a career, engineering always sparked an interest, I knew it was an ever-changing industry. I was always interested in understanding how equipment operates, which attracted me to electrical engineering/installation.
I liked the thought of being able to travel with your trade, the opportunities and experience throughout the journey. Engineers are in high demand and will continue to be so in the future.
Can you describe your career in engineering so far?
I began my 4-year Electrical Installation Apprenticeship in 2019 and I worked in a range of departments within GES Group, including panel building, installation, and reactive breakdowns.
Now I am fully qualified, I have moved into installation and reactive breakdowns in a wide range of industries including pharmaceutical, food and beverage, manufacturing plants and many more well know companies throughout Northern Ireland and Ireland.
What has been your biggest success in your career?
My biggest achievement to date throughout my time in my career is becoming fully qualified and successfully completing my Level 3 Award in Electrical Installation, 18th Edition and AM2 in 2023. I am now in charge to manage my own work on a wide range of projects.
What has been the biggest challenge you faced?
The biggest challenge I have faced so far in my career is having to overcome new environments that I haven’t worked in before, but with a strong support network in my colleagues at GES Group. Working in GES Group we have industry experts therefore support and guidance is always available.
Are there any exciting projects on which you are currently working?
The most exciting part of my career is being out on my own working on site as a qualified engineer and acting as a mentor to the younger apprentices to help guide them in their career.
A project that stood out to me was the installation of a new panel which controls 4 compressors for an entire food production site. It was my responsibility to install the panel wiring in the switch room.
What does the future look like?
I have learnt lifelong skills with GES Group throughout my apprenticeship and worked with industry experts. I look forward to continuing my career as a newly qualified Electrical Engineer.
I would like to continue my career by improving my skills and knowledge in industrial engineering. I want to become the best I can be in my field, and in particular become a more skilled reactive engineer for breakdowns. I am keen to continue training, and complete additional courses to learn more.
My long-term goal is to continue working with GES Group and obtain additional qualifications, whilst passing on my knowledge to our apprentices. It is my role in GES Group to mentor work placement students as well as 1st and 2nd year apprentices throughout their career and pass on my knowledge to the future generation of engineers.
Do you have any advice for those considering a career in engineering?
The apprenticeship route is the best for anyone interested in an engineering role as you gain a wealth of experience. You earn while you learn with no student fees at the end of it. You get the opportunity to gain experience new skills every day and build your portfolio. If you are a practical learner, the apprenticeship route provides hands on experience as well as industry knowledge.
I genuinely believe that I wouldn’t be in the position I am in now if it weren’t for following the apprenticeship route.
How has your IET Membership helped you on your journey?
I registered as an IET Member with GES Group when I began my Apprenticeship, and my company has provided me with IET documentation when completing my courses, which helped me study and complete assessment and exams.
I have attended online webinars and conference calls with IET personnel to help expand my knowledge in my industry and what my IET Membership offers.
I receive monthly magazines from IET which are delivered directly to my house which has helped me study new technologies and keep updated on current affairs in industry.
I will definitely be using more of the IET support opportunities such as Career Manager whilst continuing my journey as a qualified engineer.