Meet Harry Richards AWeldI, a Compliance Systems Coordinator at Advanced Engineering Techniques (AET), who developed his skills in process improvement, cross-departmental engagement, and Quality Management techniques, going on to achieve a Distinction on his Level 4 Quality Practitioner Apprenticeship.
Read on to discover how Harry developed expertise in leading continuous improvement initiatives and the impact he has had on his organisation throughout his apprenticeship journey.
What does your career journey to date look like?
My passion has always been everything Environmental, after leaving school I undertook a BSc in Environmental Science, and after graduating I went on to get my “dream job” but it wasn’t what I expected! I decided to pivot, taking the skills learned through my degree and putting them into Quality! I began the course shortly after joining a new business as a Quality Technician, I then started the Level 4 Quality Practitioner Apprenticeship course at Whyy? Change and it’s all been up from there!
What skills were you looking to develop before starting your Level 4 Quality Practitioner Apprenticeship?
I really wanted to develop my skills surrounding process improvement, increasing engagement, interconnectivity between departments and the application of Quality skills in the workplace.
What is it like to study at Whyy? Change?
I’ve really enjoyed my time at Whyy? Change, it was my first exposure to in-person learning post-covid and it was a really pleasant experience. Coming in to learn at Whyy? Change felt like I was part of the family, welcoming faces and encouragement with great industry knowledge all rolled into one.
“I think the friendly but knowledgeable approach to training makes them a stand-out apprenticeship training provider”
How have you applied what you’ve learnt during your Quality Practitioner Apprenticeship in your workplace?
I’ve used the skills gained on my course in multiple areas of the business, I’ve been working intensively with all departments across the site helping them to develop and execute continuous improvement initiatives. Throughout my apprenticeship project, I’ve been working to improve the engagement of non-conformances in the business, taking a particular focus on training.
What surprised you the most about Whyy? Change?
I was quite nervous before I came to Whyy? Change that it would be like going back to school, but that was definitely not the case. There were lots of open discussions during training sessions where tools and knowledge were put into context as if they were taking place within my business or that of my fellow apprentices.
Would you recommend us? If so, why?
I would definitely recommend Whyy? Change to others seeking out apprenticeships and further training. I think the friendly but knowledgeable approach to training makes them a stand-out apprenticeship training provider who will ensure that you’re getting the most out of your time with them.
Promotions and Career Progression
Upon completing the Level 4 Quality Practitioner Apprenticeship, Harry’s since been promoted from Quality Technician to Compliance Systems Coordinator whilst also achieving his Lean & Six Sigma Yellow Belt certification and the ISO 9001:2015 Internal Auditor Certificate, included in the Quality Practitioner Apprenticeship.
In addition to earning professional qualifications, we also include professional memberships. Upon enrollment, all Quality Practitioner apprentices will be registered with the Chartered Quality Institute (CQI) and receive a CQI student membership. This membership provides access to a variety of online resources, tools, and networking opportunities.
Upon completing the Level 4 Quality Practitioner Apprenticeship, you will be eligible to upgrade your student membership to Practitioner status at no additional cost. This will allow you to use the post-nominal designation PCQI after your name.
Inspired by Harry’s Story?
Get in touch to find out more about our upcoming Quality Practitioner Apprenticeship, delivered face-to-face. Join our next cohort starting in May and November. Scroll down and complete the form to begin your journey and become a Chartered Quality Practitioner today!
