Jake Wade joined PROCAT in 2010, enrolling on an intermediate apprenticeship in Mechanical Engineering with AP Hollings & Sons Ltd, based in Rayleigh, Essex. Jake progressed on to an advanced apprenticeship and remained with the firm for the duration of his studies, and has now progressed in to full time employment with the company upon the completion of his apprenticeship in 2013.
Into cars and mechanically minded, PROCAT was a no brainer for Jake as the college offered the perfect course, and progression in to the industry he is so passionate about.
Starting as an apprentice, Jake built his way up from the bottom with AP Hollings and Sons, progressing to more and more advanced work as he learned both in the college and in the workplace. Jake is aiming to become floor manager, and already helps with the training of the new PROCAT apprentices coming through, demonstrating the value the company places on developing young talent.
AP Hollings is a vacuum forming company and fibreglass manufacturer, something Jake has expressed appealed to him when he applied. The work is varied, and challenging, but enjoyable. Jake gets to go to different places like Jaguar-Land Rover, and has also worked on body kits for aspire.
Jake really valued his time at college and wouldn’t hesitate in recommending apprenticeships to others, saying “apprenticeships are a great way for young people to get their foot on the ladder in the industry they want to work in, while getting paid to qualify – it’s really a no brainer. As long as you apply yourself, you can be successful.”
AP Hollings & Sons Ltd are a family run company, but growing in size and reputation.