A local apprentice is celebrating after being named as the Apprentice of the Month at her college as a reward for all her hard work.
Not only has Katie Wood, (20), received this recognition from Rotherham College of Arts and Technology but she has also secured herself a full-time position with her employer on completion of her apprenticeship.
Katie is just finishing her NVQ Level 2 Apprenticeship in IT and has been acting as technical support at Rotherham-based IT company, Pinnula.
Katie said: “I have always been interested in IT ever since turning on my first computer and my apprenticeship has got me into the industry. I have really enjoyed getting to know everyone here and I am really pleased they have chosen to keep me as a full-time member of staff.”
Katie went down the apprenticeship route after deciding university wasn’t for her and has excelled in her apprenticeship as Christine Lant from Pinnula explained: “Katie has become such an important member of our Support Team.
“She has learnt so much about our products and our development processes and she discusses problems and issues confidently with our customers.
“Her manner with both customers and staff is professional she is always ready with a smile – even when things get tough!”
Pinnula offers complete IT services, from management consultancy to their own software products including Uniplan, their integrated MRP package and Uplanit their scheduler.
As part of her role at Pinnula, Katie has provided technical help to customers actively problem solving issues over the phone.
Rotherham College of Arts and Technology offers a host of apprenticeship pathways to choose from and it is not just for young people. Apprenticeships are available to all ages and are there for employers to help up-skill their own staff.
Some of the benefits of becoming an apprentice include; being paid while you learn, paid holidays, get the training and experience of working in your ideal job.
Katie was awarded with a certificate and Meadowhall vouchers for being Apprentice of the Month.
For more information about apprenticeships, contact the Business Improvement Team at Rotherham College on 08000 890909, or email, business@rotherham.ac.uk.