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Meet Andrew Onasanya

Electrician

Andrew is an electrician, working for Rebus Electrical

What I do

I visit homes and businesses to fix electrical issues, install new lighting and sockets, test electrical systems to make sure they’re safe and set up things like fire alarms and security systems. My job is all about ensuring people’s homes and workplaces are safe, comfortable and properly powered.

How I became a technician

My journey started quite unexpectedly. After doing my GCSEs, I struggled to find work. I saw a local builder working at the house next door and asked him if he needed any help. He took me on as a labourer. It was hard work, with lots of lifting, then one day I saw an electrician come on-site, doing skilled work (he looked clean and tidy too, as being an electrician is not as dirty work!). He inspired me and I thought, “I want to do what he does!”

How I became a technician

I went to college to study electrical installation. I’d already learned a lot from the builder, but I needed specialist electrical training. When I was looking for an apprenticeship, a friend told me about Rebus Electrical, and they took me on as an apprentice.

How I became a technician

My apprenticeship wasn’t straightforward. At 18, I had housing difficulties and was at risk of becoming homeless. Thanks to the charity Centrepoint, I managed to continue my studies, completed my apprenticeship and even won awards for my perseverance and determination. It was tough, but the whole experience taught me that if you stick at something, you can achieve your goals.

A typical day in my working life

A typical day can vary. Some days I’m calling customers to schedule visits, to do electrical safety checks. Other days I’m working on building sites. I usually arrive on site between 8am and 9am. After checking the plans to see where lights and sockets need to go, I crack on.

A typical day in my working life

I might need to pull up floorboards or put holes in walls before I can start rewiring - it can be dusty work! I need to plan carefully to stay on schedule and work around other tradespeople (like builders or plumbers) who will also be doing jobs in the same building.

What I love about my job

My favourite thing about my job is the freedom and flexibility it gives me. I’m not stuck in an office all day. Each day brings new challenges, so it’s never boring and unexpected things can happen. For example, a customer might call up late in the evening saying their lights won’t work, and off I go! I also love working with lots of different people, all with different skills and knowledge, I’m constantly learning new things.

The skills I use most

Problem-solving is a big part of what I do. I often need to figure out why something isn’t working and how to fix it. Maths and calculation skills are important too, especially when selecting the right cables and electrical equipment to use. Communication is crucial as well. I have to explain issues and listen to their needs, as well as build trust. I have to be on time, patient, and respectful of their homes and workplaces too.

Each day brings new challenges. It’s never boring. I’m constantly learning new things.
It's amazing how quickly you can go from knowing very little, to having people ask you for advice.

A little more about my everyday role

The best part of working in a team

Teamwork is essential. Every tradesperson relies on others, from builders and plumbers to electricians like me. We’re all working towards the same thing; completing projects on time, to a high standard. Starting out as an apprentice, you need to be patient, ask lots of questions, and learn from those with more experience. It's amazing how quickly you can go from knowing very little, to having people ask you for advice. Everyone has their own skills, and there’s a genuine sense of respect, no matter who someone is, how old they are or what their background is.

My favourite piece of equipment

My favourite piece of equipment is my multi-function tester. It's a bit like an electrician's Swiss army knife. It can test lots of different things in electrical circuits and help diagnose issues quickly and accurately. It saves me so much time and gives me confidence that I've done the job properly. Good tools really do make a huge difference.

What I like to do in my spare time

In my spare time, I like going to the gym and I enjoy martial arts like Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. These teach discipline and keep me physically and mentally fit. Music is another passion. At school, I played steel pans, and I still appreciate a good tune!

The most exciting thing I’ve achieved so far in my job

I won the Centrepoint ‘Independent Living Award’ in 2024, and I won the WorldSkills ‘UK Apprentice of the Year’ award in 2025, which was incredible. The awards ceremony was held at the British Museum, where I met Prince William, it felt amazing to be recognised for overcoming tough times and for succeeding in my career.

The next steps in my career journey

I’m excited to build on what I've achieved so far. I want to continue learning and developing new skills. I’d like to build up my own electrician business and eventually take on bigger projects. I’m also passionate about raising awareness of homelessness. I want to support young people who are going through similar challenges to those I’ve overcome.

The advice I’d give to someone younger

My advice is simple: Stop worrying about what other people think. Stay true to yourself. Finish what you start. Stick to your word. Keep focused and always look on the bright side. Remember to smile too, it makes everything better!

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