After studying Level 3 Engineering at college, Solly was presented with the opportunity to begin an apprenticeship with Tecforce. Although he had originally planned to complete his course, the chance to gain hands-on industry experience while earning and learning proved too good to ignore.
“I researched the company before my interview and knew it was an opportunity I wanted to take,” said Solly. “It’s been life-changing.”
Now six months into his apprenticeship, Solly has become an integral member of Tecforce’s growing Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) team, working alongside experienced Level 2 and Level 3 inspectors to ensure the safety and integrity of rail components.
Tecforce specialises in the repair, modification and maintenance of rolling stock, with NDT playing a vital role in verifying the quality and safety of repairs before components return to service. The company is also expanding its NDT capability as a standalone service, supporting a more proactive approach to inspection and preventative maintenance across the rail sector.
A typical day for Solly begins at 7am with the company’s daily production meeting, where teams discuss priorities, safety and business performance before heading into the workshop. From calibrating equipment and carrying out inspections to working alongside qualified technicians on Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI), Ultrasonic Testing (UT) and Visual Inspection, every day presents new challenges.
“I enjoy being in the workplace because you have a real role,” he explained. “When you finish a job, you get that sense of accomplishment knowing you’ve contributed to the business.”
His progress has been impressive. Solly recently achieved his PCN Magnetic Particle Inspection certification and has already earned his personal certification stamp, allowing him to formally sign off inspection work under supervision – a significant milestone for any developing NDT professional.
Solly credits both Tecforce and his training provider with helping him develop quickly.
“The training has been excellent. You’re not just learning theory – you get to practice it every day at work, which makes everything click into place.”
Beyond his technical development, Solly has embraced opportunities that many apprentices never experience. He was recently named a finalist in the Rising Star category at a regional STEM awards event and has represented Tecforce at Derby College, speaking to engineering students about careers in rail and highlighting the wide range of opportunities available beyond the roles many people associate with the industry.
“I wanted students to see that there are so many careers in rail. Since joining Tecforce I’ve learned far more than NDT – I’ve developed reporting skills, communication, presentation skills and even helped support training activities.”
Although he admits confidence was initially a challenge, particularly when reporting defects to experienced welders, Solly says the supportive culture at Tecforce has helped him grow professionally.
“The first thing that stood out was how welcoming everyone was. They’ve always encouraged me to develop and given me confidence to trust my judgement.”
Tecforce’s commitment to nurturing apprentices has not gone unnoticed. Solly’s Lavender apprenticeship tutor Ben describes him as “very capable” and believes he has the potential to become a future Level 3 Lead Technician.
“Everyone at Tecforce believes in him,” Ben said. “He’s one of the strongest examples of what an apprenticeship can achieve. He has the ability, the work ethic and the attitude to go a long way.”
Looking ahead, Solly plans to continue progressing through his qualifications, with Visual Testing and Ultrasonic Testing next on his development pathway. His long-term ambition is to become a Level 3 Lead Technician while continuing to carry out practical inspections and helping to develop Tecforce Ltd’s expanding NDT services.
For Solly, the decision to choose an apprenticeship over a traditional college route has been one he has never regretted.
“I would recommend an apprenticeship 1000%. You earn while you learn, you’re building a career from day one and you develop so many skills, not just technical ones. Tecforce invests in you, encourages you to grow and gives you opportunities you wouldn’t get anywhere else.”
As the rail industry continues to address skills shortages and attract the next generation of engineers, Solly’s story demonstrates the value of apprenticeships in developing confident, highly skilled professionals ready to shape the future of Non-Destructive Testing.
Tecforce are an independent supplier of engineering services to the Rail Industry specialising in the development and execution of repair processes for rolling stock vehicle structures and components applying a consultative engineering approach.
If you are looking to take on a new employee or up-skilling current staff then the Level 2 or Level 3 apprenticeship scheme allows for a structured training programme as well as offers government funding options that includes Level 2 certification within the programme.