Steel Career Insights at JLH
31 Years at British Steel: Graham Shares His Career Story with JLH Students
Thirty-one years is a long time in any industry, and in steel it covers a lot of change. That was the starting point when Graham came to John Leggott Humber to talk about the 31 years he spent at British Steel, and what it takes to build an engineering apprenticeship or career in Immingham and across the Humber.
Students heard first-hand what working for one of the region's best-known employers was like, and came away with a clearer picture of the industry many of them hope to join.
Who visited JLH, and what did he talk about?
Graham, who spent 31 years working at British Steel, visited JLH students on the JLC campus to share how the industry changed during his career and the skills people need to succeed in it.
He talked students through the changes he saw over three decades, the challenges and opportunities in the steel sector, and what employers expect in the workplace. British Steel is one of JLH's industry partners, and students have previously visited the company as part of their year. (Source: British Steel)
What did students want to know?
JLH students asked Graham about career progression, day-to-day responsibilities, apprenticeships and where the steel industry is heading next.
The group was engaged throughout and came ready with questions. Graham's honest answers gave them a real-life view of the range of roles available in manufacturing and engineering, from what a typical working day involves to how people move up over time.
Why do industry talks matter for students at JLH?
Hearing directly from people with years of industry experience helps JLH students understand the world of work they are preparing to enter.
Students at JLH spend the year working towards GCSE English and maths and Level 2 qualifications, with the aim of moving on to an apprenticeship, a Level 3 course or employment. An apprenticeship is a job with training, where you earn a wage while gaining a qualification. (Source: Apprenticeships, GOV.UK)
A talk like Graham's turns that goal into something real. It also showed students the value of commitment, continuous learning and professional development across a long career, which are the same habits they are building now.
You can read more about how industry is involved in the year on the Fresh Start Programme at John Leggott Humber page.
What's the next step if this sparked an interest in engineering?
Start by talking to the JLC Careers Team about apprenticeships in manufacturing and engineering, and look at what's being advertised locally. The Careers and Employability page explains the support available, and you can browse live vacancies on Find an Apprenticeship.
A huge thank you to Graham for giving up his time and sharing his knowledge, experience and advice with our students.
Frequently asked questions
Does John Leggott Humber work with British Steel?
Yes. British Steel is one of JLH's industry partners, and JLH students have visited the company. Students have also heard from Graham, who worked at British Steel for 31 years.
Can I get an engineering apprenticeship after JLH?
The year at JLH is designed to lead to an apprenticeship, a Level 3 course or employment. Engineering is one of the routes, including Level 3 Engineering supported by HETA.
Do JLH students hear from people who work in industry?
Yes. JLH students meet people with industry experience through visits and on-site talks, giving them a real view of careers in manufacturing, engineering and energy across the Humber.
