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Andy Hyde joined Nestlé in 2019 on a Level 3 multiskilled engineering apprenticeship. He finished the programme in August 2023 and is now a multiskilled technician at the Halifax site.

During my A-levels I began to realise that my strengths really lie in more practical, hands-on disciplines and I made the decision to work with my Dad on machine maintenance. That was when I decided I wanted to pursue an engineering apprenticeship.

One of my close friends from school was already on the same Nestlé apprenticeship and he mentioned to me that they were recruiting. He told me what a great place to work it is, and that you gain experience working with some world-class brands, and that was all the encouragement I needed to apply!

Gaining real skills

I came to the apprenticeship with a decent base of engineering skills thanks to my Dad, but the course has given me the chance to get to grips with big pieces of equipment like milling machines and learn skills like welding that I'd never had the chance to do otherwise.

It also teaches you all about the hygiene aspects of working in a food environment, as well as skills like people and communication skills, which have definitely helped me build confidence and brought me out of my shell a lot.

You gain training on every stage of the engineering requirement, learning everything from planning and prep, liaison with third-party suppliers, working with production and justifying costs vs payback time. It's a big challenge but prepares you well for the reality of an engineering role.

Andy Hyde with colleagues
Andy Hyde at the factory

Working with household brands

I'm now putting everything I've learned to use by helping make real improvements around the factory, like reducing waste and streamlining operations, all of which is enormously rewarding.

One of the great things about an apprenticeship with Nestlé is that you're working with household brands every day – products like Quality Street, After Eight and Matchmakers that everyone knows. They're fantastic names to have on your CV.

A be-yourself ethos

If you have a passion for engineering, I'd strongly recommend an apprenticeship with Nestlé. One thing that sets it apart is that it's genuinely strength-based and focused on you as an individual. At Nestlé, you're really encouraged to be yourself and grow with the company.

Another thing they do well is encouraging interactions between apprentices and more experienced technicians who are all happy to share their skills and experience to make sure you get the most out of the hands-on learning.