UK Power Networks recruits 55 new apprentices

UK Power Networks has invested £6 million in its apprenticeship programme this year, welcoming 55 new apprentices who will play a vital role in supporting Britain’s transition to clean, low-carbon energy.

The new recruits – a mix of school leavers and experienced workers – will be trained in critical frontline roles that help maintain reliable electricity supplies for 20 million people across London, the South East and East of England. 

This year’s intake was highly competitive, with more than 2000 applicants.

Among the new London apprentices are:

• Connal Macbeth (29), from Peckham – substation fitter, Canning Town
• Daniel Harney (31), from Leytonstone – cable jointer, Lea Valley
• Ryan Murphy (23), from Barnet – overhead linesperson, Hemel Hempstead
• Elliott Burns (41), from North London – substation fitter, the Chilterns
• James Howden (17), from Bexleyheath – substation fitter, Falconwood
• Callum Grant (18), from Enfield – substation fitter, Borehamwood
• Ubayd Kayan (28), from Bexley – substation fitter, Falconwood
• James Regis (33), from Stratford – substation fitter, Canning Town
• Omari Hibbert (18), from Lewisham – cable jointer, Brixton
• Ibshar Uddin (19), from Westminster – substation fitter, Camden
• Alvaro Lincango (19), from Hillingdon – cable jointer, Camden
• Shay Fitzgerald (17), from Uxbridge – cable jointer, Camden
• Michael Cook (17), from Enfield – cable jointer, Lea Valley
• Elijah Briggs (19), from Hounslow, who previously worked as an outdoor activity leader and played rugby for Twickenham Rugby Club

Elijah, who will become a cable jointer, said: “I applied and didn’t think I had a chance, but he encouraged me and I made it through the first round and then the interviews and the assessment day. 

“I was really nervous but I came out feeling proud of myself. 

“I worked in a pub and when I got the call I played it cool, put the phone down and started screaming in the staff room! Everyone was really proud of me. 

“This is a good time to get into this industry, the future is electricity.”

Charlie Aston, engineering trainee manager at UK Power Networks, added: “Our apprenticeships nurture local talent and prepare the technical energy experts of tomorrow to power our regions’ future. 

“We are building a strong, skilled workforce drawn from the very communities we serve, enabling recruits from London to play a vital role in maintaining, connecting and upgrading the electricity network for homes and businesses and helping power Britain’s low-carbon future.”

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