Celebrating Our Apprentices: Shaping the Future of DPL Group

DPL Group is proud to have 26 apprentices currently working across the business – with many of our team having started on our graduate apprentice scheme and progressing through the company. Each one of them plays a vital role in supporting our work, developing their skills, building experience and shaping the future of the business.

This National Apprenticeship Week, we want to shine a light on just a few of our brilliant apprentices who continue to make DPL Group the company it is today.

James Ryder – Trainee Mechanical and Electrical Project Engineer

I decided to join DPL group after leaving sixth form, as I realised it was not the right path for me. I was keen to begin working while also developing my skills and working towards a recognised qualification. Since starting, I’ve had the opportunity to learn a wide range of skills, from using CAD software to assisting Paul with electrical projects and Dan with mechanical work. My biggest influence at DPL Group has been Ben Wakeman. His career journey has been inspiring and has shown me what can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and commitment. I’m looking forward to achieving my Level 3 qualification and continuing to progress in my career.

George Moss – Trainee Mechanical Project Engineer

I first heard about DPL when looking for local apprenticeships and seeing their vans around Ipswich. An immediate pull was the company had a clear apprenticeship scheme with a qualification that directly correlates with what was going to be done at work, and a good progression path once the apprenticeship had been completed. I’ve been involved in a multitude of different projects and tasks and started learning more intricate parts of how each project is handled, from tender stage right through to client handover. Everyone here at DPL has been so supportive and has guided me at each stage. Once my apprenticeship is complete, I’m looking forward to specialising in one of the departments that I have worked in and learning as much as I can.

Charlie Cowham – Fire and Security Apprentice (P&D)

I joined DPL group after completing one year at college, as I wanted to learn skills through hands-on learning alongside other engineers. My journey as an apprentice has been very positive – every day I feel like I am picking up new skills and techniques, as well as working with a good team of engineers. One of my favourite projects was installing facial recognition systems at MSC – I found this very interesting as it is something I had never seen before and was also something which was new to the company. I’m looking forward to gaining more independence and hopefully running my own jobs one day.

Austin Riches – Apprentice Electrical Estimator

I chose DPL because it stood out as a company that invests in its apprentices. I was especially interested in going to college alongside working, as I wanted to gain both real-life experience as well as technical knowledge. I also liked that the college is based in London! One of the best experiences at DPL so far has been taking part in the Cumbria Challenge in the Lake District. It was a great opportunity to get to know colleagues outside of the office and work together as a team. My biggest influence at DPL has been Adam Steward. Working with him every day, I’ve learned a lot from his experience and guidance, which has really helped me settle into the role and feel more confident in my work.

George Taylor – Trainee Electrical Project Engineer

I first discovered DPL at an apprenticeship fair in Ipswich and was drawn to the friendly, family environment. Over the past two-and-a-half years, I’ve gained experience both in the office and on-site, including a long placement at St Margaret’s Hospital. Studying Building Services Engineering in London has complemented this perfectly. My most memorable moment so far has to be the track day I took part in, where we took the company BMW M2 to the Snetterton Race Track! The person who has had the greatest influence would be Jason Newell. He took me under his wing, helped teach me the different aspects of project management and made me feel comfortable and welcome from day one.

Our apprentices bring energy, talent, and fresh ideas to DPL Group every day. 

We’re proud of their achievements and excited to see how they continue to shape the company’s future.