Open Days
Soldier

I’m now qualified and the work placement has turned into a great job with real prospects. I couldn’t have asked for anything better. I get more time with my family and I’m learning every day and enjoying it all enormously. And since gas is unlikely to run out in the near future, I feel I have a career for life!

Corporal Mark Thomas

The Problem

Mark was in the army for 13 years and faced the prospect of another major tour. But with a young family at home, he decided a career change was what he really wanted as spending more time close to home with his wife and children was now his main priority. Looking for a career change Mark discussed his options with his brother who advised exploring the possibility of becoming a gas engineer could be a good move as he was working in gas engineering and plumbing himself. Speaking to other tradesmen Mark knew hands-on experience would be essential when looking for a job, so he looked for an apprenticeship – only to hit a brick wall.

The Solution

Mark recalls: “I couldn’t find an apprenticeship anywhere and then I came across Brookhouse and the rest is history. The big attraction for me was the promise of a quality work placement that would give me that all-important work experience. I knew nothing about gas engineering prior to starting the course but the tutors made the learning enjoyable and always gave the time needed to answer questions. They also stressed that the course gave the fundamental knowledge and skills needed – and that real-world learning would be our big chance to develop our craft.”

They were absolutely right! Armed with the essentials, I felt able to make the best use of the fantastic work placement they arranged for me with Morrison Facilities Services and I worked really hard. I’m now qualified and the work placement has turned into a great job with real prospects. I couldn’t have asked for anything better. I get more time with my family and I’m learning every day and enjoying it all enormously. And since gas is unlikely to run out in the near future, I feel I have a career for life!