Tom Farquharson, iconsys
Tom Farquharson is an apprentice technician at IET Enterprise Partner iconsys with a passion for engineering that can be traced back to his childhood, drawing inspiration from family members. Joining the team at iconsys just 18 months ago, Tom has already made significant strides in his career and is already achieving great things.
When did you decide to become an engineer?
Engineering is a subject that I have had a keen interest in since an early age. I think a lot of it had to do with my Grandad who was an Engineer. I have always found it fascinating how things work, electrics and the processes that have been gone through to develop modern technology.
When I reached my early/mid-twenties, I felt I had to decide on what I wanted to do with the rest of my life, either I could work jobs that left me unfulfilled, or I could get a career that gave me the satisfaction I desired. A huge influence on this was my father-in-law.
He is an electrical engineer who has been there to provide continued advice and support throughout. Spending time with him reignited my interest in engineering and left me thinking why not choose a career in something I am actually interested in?
Since starting my career in engineering, I have only one regret, that is that I didn’t start it sooner.
How have you found your journey in engineering so far?
Great! I have enjoyed everything throughout the whole process so far. I enjoy my working environment and I am working alongside some great people. The college side of things as well has been fantastic. I couldn’t fault the delivery of my apprenticeship, from both my employer and my college.
What has been your biggest success in your career?
I would say that so far, my biggest success is gaining my employment at iconsys. Since starting at iconsys my knowledge and skill set has improved greatly. I hope that I am able to continue to grow and establish myself within the business as a valued member of the team.
What has been your biggest challenge in your career?
So far, the biggest challenge I have faced is taking on my Level 3 and NVQ in one year. When this was offered to me, I was apprehensive as I wasn’t sure how I was going to manage the workload whilst still producing the level of work that I strive for. Since starting in September and getting to grips with organising my study time, I believe this is an excellent opportunity that was offered to me with the support of iconsys and college and I am on course to complete my apprenticeship a year early.
Are there any exciting projects on which you are currently working?
Currently I am working on a project for TATA Steel. I have recently been moved across to testing, which I am enjoying. I find it interesting seeing the projects from a different point of view and analysing the builds in detail. I am also hoping to experience my first site visit in the coming months, which I feel will be invaluable experience for me and aid in the progression of my career.
What advice would you give to young people looking at careers in engineering and technology?
My advice to anybody looking to pursue a career in engineering is to go for it. It is such a vast industry, that a career in engineering could literally take you anywhere! With the continuous evolving of technology and man’s desire to achieve more and more it is a profession that will offer you a career for life.
What does the future look like and what are your goals?
Currently, my goal is to complete my apprenticeship and achieve a grade that I can be proud of. Upon completion of my apprenticeship, I will look to advance in my training and hope to embark on Higher Education. Alongside this I will hope to continue to improve my skill set and knowledge in all areas including programming and begin to go in the direction that I ultimately wish to get to. As my career progresses and with the knowledge and experience I have gained I would like to provide a role in commissioning.