Our High Speed Rail Group Apprentice Network is designed to connect apprentices and graduates from across our membership – providing opportunities for mentoring, networking, meeting other apprentices with different roles and sharing experiences and best practice.
We recently welcomes Advanced Fitter Apprentice Nathan Gibson to the network.
Can you describe your role in a few words?
I work as part of a team to install new modifications to improve ride comfort on the new London and North Western Railway (LNWR) trains and getting them sale ready.
What were you doing prior to your Apprenticeship?
I got an engineering BTEC at Kendal College and did work experience at a couple of places including a silo manufacturer.
What was your perception of the sector before you started your apprenticeship?
From a young age I’ve always loved trains, I consider myself a rail enthusiast. I think good rail infrastructure should be a real priority for the country.
What interested you in joining Alstom?
After I completed my BTEC, I applied for a number of places in the rail industry because of the reasons stated above. I was particularly interested in working at Alstom because I thought it would be good experience and very interesting to see the inner workings of brand-new trains and how they are manufactured.
What are the key things you’ve learnt so far in your job?
I am learning all of the skills and understanding needed to manufacture complex vehicles including the special processes and quality standards.
What is the most exciting part of your role?
Being among trains all day, I absolutely love it!
Have you worked on the HS2 project through your apprenticeship?
No but I am very interested in the execution and delivery of HS2. The trains will be fitted out at Derby works which is exciting.
What would you like to do after completing your apprenticeship?
I will definitely stay in the rail industry, wherever that takes me.