Meet Tanvir Singh

It’s just me and my boss, but that works really well. Even though there’s an age difference, we get on really well. It’s more than just a workplace – it feels like working with a friend. I can ask questions whenever I’m unsure, and I’m constantly learning from his experience.

When we need to work together on bigger tasks, we support each other and get it done efficiently. It makes the job more enjoyable and less stressful.

My favourite piece of equipment is the multifunction tester. It’s a piece of equipment that I wear around my neck, and I use it when I do testing and fault finding on an electrical circuit. It lets me know if a circuit is safe to be turned on.

I like it because it helps me find faults and confirm that everything is safe before switching things on. It’s one of the most important tools I use.

When I was younger, I was really into football. I preferred playing rather than watching.

Now I spend most of my free time at the gym. I mainly focus on weights, with some cardio here and there. Work can be busy and sometimes the days are long, so going to the gym helps me stay fit and clear my head.

At school, I enjoyed sports, especially football. I didn’t have any hobbies or activities connected to electrics then, it was more of a dream, rather than something I actively explored.

It wasn’t until after my GCSEs, when I started my T-level, that I really got my head around electrics. That’s when things became more practical and hands-on, and I started building real circuits.

One of my proudest achievements has been my exam results during my apprenticeship. I worked hard and was really proud to achieve good grades.

I have also taken part in SkillELECTRIC for the last couple of years – it’s a national competition for apprentices in the electrical industry. Being chosen to take part made me feel proud, it was nice to be recognised for my skills.

The first time I entered, I placed fourth at my venue. The judges told me my quality was top tier, but I think a lack of confidence held me back. This year though, I got first place!

A surprising fact is that fault finding isn’t always about complicated equipment. Sometimes it’s about simple, logical thinking and checking the most likely cause first - like water getting into outdoor lights.

Also, I don’t just install things. I help design jobs with customers and sometimes suggest more energy-efficient options like solar lighting.

I’m close to finishing my apprenticeship. After that, I need to complete a few more courses to become fully qualified.

My long-term goal is to have my own company and be self-employed.

Be consistent. If you find a path that’s right for you, stick with it and put all your effort into it.

You may not see results in the first year, but don’t quit. Keep going, because one day the effort will pay off.