Welding Technician
Lewie is an apprentice pipe welder at Rolls-Royce Submarines
I am learning to weld parts for the systems that power submarines, which help to defend the country.
The parts we work on have to be made to a high standard because they’ll be used hundreds of feet underwater.
I follow detailed technical instructions and practise welding different materials in different positions until my welds pass a test where they are X-rayed.
The X-ray shows any tiny cracks, gaps or other hidden defects. Once I pass this, I am qualified in that specific weld.
It’s a cool place to work, not many people in the world can say that they work on submarine engines!
Also, I know I am part of an important process and helping to build something much bigger.
I also like knowing that I am gaining a practical skill and several years of genuine workplace experience.
Welding is a skill I can take with me throughout my career.
Determination and resilience are important. Welding can be frustrating when you can’t get something right, but you have to stay strong-minded, listen to advice and keep practising.
Precision is also essential. A tiny crack or a section where the metals have not fused properly can weaken a weld. Moving the torch too quickly or not using enough shielding gas can create defects, so I have to be very precise.
Being on time, working safely and showing a positive attitude all help too. It’s easier to teach welding skills to somebody with the right attitude than it is to teach the right attitude to somebody who can already weld.
I train as part of a group of 12 apprentices. We are all friends, we have a laugh and there is a really nice atmosphere. Our trainers are always available, they come into my welding bay, watch what I'm doing and explain what needs to change and what I can improve.
They've worked as welders on the shop floor, so they understand the problems and know how to help us improve.
My favourite piece of equipment is the angle grinder, it's a welder’s best friend!
A grinder removes metal from the surface of a weld. When something has gone wrong, I can grind it back, clean it and try again. It's like rubbing out a mistake. My welding torch is obviously essential too, but the grinder can be a lifesaver.
Sport is a big part of my life. I enjoy playing and watching football and cricket. I have a season ticket at Derby County and have watched the team for most of my life.
I love travelling around the country to see matches with my best mate, my dad and my brother.
I did well at school, but sometimes found it distracting when others were talking. I'm more interested when I can get involved, see what is happening and do something for myself.
I'm more of a visual and practical learner. I like to get my hands on equipment, and learning through experience suits me much better than sitting and listening.
My proudest achievement was getting onto the Rolls-Royce apprenticeship in the first place. Thousands of people apply and only around 100 people were accepted!
I think completing my A-levels helped me stand out, but I also tried to be myself during the interview and spoke naturally to let the interviewers get to know me.
A weld can look fine on the outside but still contain a hidden defect. That's why some of our qualification welds are checked using X-rays.
The X-ray can reveal tiny cracks, trapped oxygen or areas where the filler metal has not joined properly with the main material.
I need to complete my apprenticeship and gain the qualifications that will allow me to weld on the shop floor and, once qualified, I can work on both manual and mechanised welding processes.
I could also study for a degree later if I wanted to, perhaps in metallurgy, which is the science of metals and how they behave. Mostly though I want to carry on building a secure career in an in-demand trade.
Don't rush into a career just because you think you need to decide everything at 16. I did my A-levels, took a year out and started my apprenticeship at 19, and that extra time helped me work out what I really wanted.
You have years ahead of you, so explore your options and choose something that suits how you learn. Most importantly, be punctual, show a good attitude and talk to interviewers like normal people – that's what worked for me!
Discover what qualifications you’ll need, how much you can earn, and what the next steps are.
