Meet Euan:
LGV Apprentice Technician
(Level 3 Year 2)
A Hands-On LGV Apprenticeship Journey
From Stamford College to the workshop floor
Tools of the trade
Daily tools: Hand tools, battery-powered tools, air-powered tools, measuring equipment, welder
Top 3 essentials: 13mm spanner, ball peen hammer, torch
Tool I use more than expected: Welding equipment
Tool that was tricky at first: Welding
Tool I enjoy most: Impact guns (battery-powered)
Job lesson from tools: Look after them and they’ll look after you
Tip for students starting work: Get comfortable using hand tools, measuring tools,
and battery-powered tools
Quick take
Job in one sentence: Every day is a hands-on day
Biggest myth: Apprenticeships aren’t just sweeping and making drinks – if you show interest,
it’s very hands-on
One thing college didn’t teach me: Working has made me a more confident person
Finish line in 3–5 years: Management or running my own workshop
My story
What got you into mechanics? I’m academic, but I prefer being hands-on. I’ve always enjoyed tinkering, so it was an easy choice
Did you always know? Yes – this is what I wanted to do
Influences: My stepdad – helping look after his truck
If not mechanics? It would be something I wouldn’t enjoy
Real talk
Toughest day: I left a plug out and all the oil came out. I stayed behind and learned not to rush
Feeling out of depth: It happens, but you get support and figure it out
What keeps you going: The satisfaction of doing a job well, especially when you’re pushed beyond what you think your level is
The job
Working here: Everyone gets on, it’s practical and fun
Team: Solid, supportive, with good banter
What surprises people: Buying your own tools on an apprentice wage is tough, but they’re yours for life. There’s real pride in building your own toolkit
Future focus
Specialisation: Happy doing a bit of everything
Long-term career: Yes – building skills, gaining experience,
and growing with the team