JTL Regional MES Award Winner

Congratulations to Bailey Sines, who has been named the JTL Regional MES Award Winner for the Southern Region. Based in CLC’s Colchester division, Bailey began his journey as a Heating Apprentice at CLC in September 2019, and through dedication and hard work, became a fully qualified Heating Engineer by October 2023. He now continues to grow in his career with CLC, this award highlights the impressive progress he has made.

Questions

1. What inspired you to pursue a career as Heating Engineer?

Prior to leaving school I was not sure what career path I wanted to pursue, I’ve always been a more practical learner, so I was always going to do some form of trade job. My uncle Neil Austin is a Heating Engineer at CLC. He is someone I look up to and thanks to him, he recommended me to get an apprenticeship with CLC. I will always be thankful for him. 

2. What type of work do you do as a Heating Engineer?

I cover all aspects of domestic heating and gas work, ranging from LGSI’s, boiler/ heating installs, boiler breakdowns and fault finding within various heating systems.

3. What challenges have you faced during your apprenticeship? And how did you overcome them?

As said previously, I am more of a practical learner, but without the theory side, there is no qualification. There were many times when I struggled with retaining information, but I soon realised this comes with experience and putting in the hours outside of work and college.

4. What has been the most valuable skill you've learned during your apprenticeship?

My apprenticeship has taught me how to always be accountable and take responsibility for yourself. Doing an apprenticeship is not always straight forward, there is certainly setbacks. But it’s how you adapt and overcome in situations, especially within the plumbing and heating industry, I believe having this mindset is so key to completing an apprenticeship.

5. How has CLC and Amey supported your growth and learning opportunities?

CLC and Amey have been great, there is so many resources and people to reach out to within both companies for any advice or help needed. I have also furthered my gas qualification by completing an LPG and cooker course, courtesy of CLC. I’d like to give a special mention to Simon Cousins (Gas supervisor) for always being at the other end of the phone when I’ve needed technical advice, he is a real asset to CLC.

6. How has receiving this recognition impacted you personally and professionally?

Receiving this award and recognition, gives me a huge sense of pride. Four years of hard work as an apprentice, has finally paid off!

7. Any future goals?

Of course, I am still in the early stages of my career and every day I am learning something new, every day is a learning curve! I want to master my craft and hopefully climb up the ladder within CLC.

8. Why should someone do a CLC apprenticeship?

Anyone looking to start an apprenticeship should do it with CLC, as said, there are so many resources and helpful people within the company to assist an apprentice along the way. In my opinion, it has been a great place to learn my trade. I would love to have an apprentice working with me one day, so they can learn the way I did.

9. Any tips for new apprentices at CLC?

My advice for future apprentices would be to always listen and absorb as much knowledge from those with experience. Be willing to go the extra mile where possible and fundamentally, enjoy what you do!

Thomas Silvey, Business Director Defence, Amey:

“Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition. Your success is a fantastic reflection of the shared commitment between CLC and Amey to developing people and championing early careers. It's inspiring to see that commitment come to life on the RAMS contract, where together we deliver vital services for Service families with care and pride. Thank you for the important contribution you make every day, and I wish you every success as your career continues to grow."”