Level 2 Traineeship in Engineering student Mia Rutherford (18) from Newtownards, is gaining the skills and knowledge she needs to progress into her dream job area in the engineering sector.
Mia had wanted to be an engineer for some time and wanted to find a course to help her on her way to achieving her goal. After doing research online, Mia attended an open day at the college and decided SERC was right for her. She started her journey at SERC on the Skills for Life and Work programme and is now completing the Level 2 Traineeship in Engineering.
Mia says, “I really enjoy SERC, the staff are friendly and I love the opportunities and experiences I’ve had so far with SERC. As part of my current course, I’ve done a lot of fun projects like making a tool maker clamp and a c-clamp, I’ve also been learning how to weld, so we get lots of practical work to learn through. We also get to learn about maths, science and different materials for the theory part of the course.
“My traineeship placement is with Denroy Plastics Limited. I work in the tool room and do a few different jobs; for example, I use manual lathes and help with the maintenance for the machines. The placement has opened so many doors for me, helps me put the skills I’ve learnt in SERC into practice, and I have met loads of new people - I get to work in my dream job sector at such a young age. On top of this, Denroy has now given me the opportunity to begin my apprenticeship with them this year – getting onto an apprenticeship like this wouldn’t have been possible without the traineeship and I’m so excited to see where my apprenticeship will take me.”
On her next steps, Mia comments, “I want to continue my education at SERC and achieve the highest-level qualifications possible with the college in engineering. In the long-term, I’d love to start working with motorbike engines.”
She concludes, “I would recommend joining SERC, the courses are fun and engaging and everyone will make you feel welcome.”
