Joanna McCourt completed her Level 3 Laboratory Technician apprenticeship at Liberty Powder Metals and has just received a Distinction grade in her end point assessment.
She said, “I’ve always had an interest in science, and I studied Crime Scene Science at University. After graduating I did lots of different jobs but decided that I really wanted to follow my passion in science. I always enjoyed working in the labs when I was at University, so decided that is the path I should follow.
“I wanted to get an apprenticeship as it would allow me to gain an extra qualification whilst giving me a chance to gain experience in the workplace, which is something I didn’t have much of in the lab.
“I’ve learned lots throughout my apprenticeship and I’m really enjoying the work I do. I’m the only person in the lab full time so I’ve been able to gain lots of experience and have even trained as a radiation protection supervisor, as well as being trained up to use the 3D printer.
“I’ve found it quite easy to balance my work alongside my studies for the apprenticeship, and it’s been made all the easier by the support I’ve received from my tutors.
“Now I have completed my apprenticeship I’m looking forward to progressing in my career, hopefully to a team leader role where I can help train up other apprentices.”
One of Joanna’s tutors, Jamie Hunter, said: “Joanna had already completed her degree when she started her apprenticeship with us which gave her a real advantage in how she approached her training, and she always embraced the opportunity to challenge her skills set.”
Course: Level 3 Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship
Employer: Liberty Powder Metals