NIAW2023: Alexander Wallace Blazes a Trail for Fire Systems Apprenticeship Route

The path to success hasn’t always been straightforward for Alexander Wallace (27), from Saintfield, but the young man who will complete his Level 3 Fire Systems Apprenticeship this spring is keen for others to check out the apprenticeship route for a career in their chosen sector during the annual NI Apprenticeship Week 6 – 10 February 2023.

Alexander said, “After my A Levels, I went to Ulster University to complete a BSc in Information Technology.  Along with several students on the course, I struggled to find a work placement, so I spent the whole of the course on campus.  When I finished with a 2:1, I could not set off on the career path I had envisaged as I had no experience in the IT industry."

“I decided that I should build on the skills that I gained and move across to work in the electrical industry. As I was older, it was difficult to secure an apprenticeship. I made enquiries through SERC and that’s when I heard about the Fire Systems apprenticeship.   The sector is growing, and it sounded like the perfect way to build on my qualifications and skills, get a trade, but also have a career with further opportunities."

“I secured employment with BPS and have been with them for most of my Level 2 and Level 3 Apprenticeship in Fire Systems.   I will complete my apprenticeship this spring and I have just recently secured a new position as Fire & Security Engineer with Atlas World."

“I have had fantastic opportunities through my apprenticeships which has included competing in the IFSEC and FIREX Engineers of Tomorrow, SkillBuild NI and most recently the WorldSkills UK Finals where I secured a Gold Medal in the inaugural competition for Fire Detection & Alarm Systems.

Alexander concluded, “It took me a while to get to where I am, but the finishing line is in sight, and I have thoroughly enjoyed my apprenticeship. For anyone interested in a trade with good employment prospects, I would advise them to find out about the apprenticeship route to see where it can take you, and I would certainly recommend the Fire Systems Apprenticeship. The best thing is that you are working and earning, gaining a valuable and respected qualification, and you won’t have the burden of student loans or debt.”

Come along to our Have a Go Sessions for potential apprentices 4.30pm to 7.00pm at: |
Lisburn Campus - Monday 6 February;
Bangor Campus -Tuesday 7 February;
Newtownards Campus - Wednesday 8 February, and 
Downpatrick Campus - Thursday 9 February.

Visit serc.ac.uk/NI-Apprenticeship-Week-2023