Apprenticeship Spotlight: Jack Taylor’s Experience with KeyIS

Q: What inspired you to pursue an apprenticeship at KeyIS?
Jack: I’ve always been drawn to hands-on, technical work. An apprenticeship at KeyIS offered the perfect opportunity to develop these skills in a professional setting.

Q: What’s been the most exciting part of your apprenticeship so far?
Jack: Working on a military base was a unique and exciting experience. It’s not a place I would have ever thought I’d visit, let alone work at

Q: How do you balance the practical, hands-on experience with your studies?
Jack: I attend college one day a week as part of a day-release programme. The theory I learn at college helps me better understand and apply my knowledge to on-site jobs.

Q: What have been some of the most valuable skills or lessons you’ve learned since joining the company?
Jack: One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that hard tasks may feel daunting at first, but as you grow accustomed to them, they help build your confidence.

Q: How do you think your apprenticeship at KeyIS is preparing you for your future career?
Jack: This apprenticeship is equipping me with the skills I need to become a fully qualified commercial gas engineer—a well-paying and rewarding career.

Q: Where do you see yourself in five years?
Jack: I see myself as a fully qualified commercial gas engineer, still working on the tools and improving my skills every day.

Q: What has surprised you most about working in the engineering, design, and maintenance industry?
Jack: Before I joined the industry, I imagined large companies and corporations had everything perfectly organised. But in reality, there are always challenges behind the scenes, and everyone is just human.

Q: How has working at KeyIS supported your personal and professional growth?
Jack: My confidence has grown significantly since I joined KeyIS. I used to be very shy, but working with clients and engineers has helped me become more comfortable in my role.

Q: Can you describe a project or task you’re particularly proud of?
Jack: I lacked confidence with pipework installations early on because I didn’t understand how everything fit together. Then, I worked on a large pipework installation at an army base. I fit loads of pipework on my own, and now I no longer fear similar projects.

Q: How do you feel the culture at KeyIS supports apprentices and their development?
Jack: KeyIS is relatively new to apprenticeships, but I’m incredibly grateful they gave me this opportunity. They’ve been supportive and invested in helping me grow.

Q: What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship in your field?
Jack: Go for it! Once you’re qualified, the pay is great, and it’s a career for life.

Q: What drew you to the maintenance side of the business?
Jack: I enjoy the technical aspects of maintenance work.

Q: What aspect of maintenance engineering/design do you enjoy the most?
Jack: I love when jobs go smoothly without any problems—it’s satisfying to see everything come together.

Q: How has working on real-world maintenance projects shaped your understanding of the industry compared to just learning from textbooks?
Jack: Textbooks often oversimplify things or suggest solutions that aren’t practical in real-world scenarios. On-the-job experience teaches you what actually works and how to adapt to challenges.

Q: What are the next steps for you in terms of skills development and qualifications?
Jack: My goal is to gain the confidence and ability to work independently across a range of jobs, relying less on engineers for advice. I’m also working toward earning my commercial gas qualification.

Q: What’s one thing about working at KeyIS that you think sets it apart from other companies?
Jack: The variety of jobs and the focus on commercial gas and heating engineer work set KeyIS apart.

Q: How do you feel your apprenticeship at KeyIS is setting you up for long-term success in the industry?
Jack: KeyIS is setting me up for success by exposing me to the best kind of work, which provides invaluable experience.

Q: Finally, how has your confidence and skillset grown since starting at KeyIS, and what are you most excited about moving forward?
Jack: My confidence has grown significantly over the past year. When I first started, I mostly observed and helped out. Now, I’m taking on jobs independently, and I’m excited to continue growing and mastering my craft.

Final Thoughts
Jack Taylor’s journey highlights how an apprenticeship at KeyIS provides real-world experience, personal growth, and a pathway to a rewarding career. At KeyIS, we’re committed to supporting apprentices like Jack as they develop their skills and build their futures in the engineering and maintenance industry.

Are you ready to take the first step in your career? Discover apprenticeship opportunities at KeyIS here.