07/03/2025
To round up our MD and Founder Iain Macphail writes about his apprenticeship experience and his thoughts on the future of the trades.
Remember an apprentice isn't a cheap solution to get you through a job, they are people with real aspirations and dreams, just like you. Treat them well, empower them and the future will be bright!
Why Apprenticeships Matter: My Journey and the Future of the Trades
Introduction
I’ve always been more of a hands-on learner, and academic work in school—though perfectly doable—just never truly engaged me. My parents and grandparents often said that if you pick up a trade, you can take it anywhere in the world and always have something to fall back on. And they were right. That’s how I found my way into an apprenticeship, rather than choosing a more traditional route like university or a standard job without training.
Finding My Feet
At first, I assumed an apprenticeship might be easier than other paths, but I quickly realised it was no breeze. Apprenticeships demand a lot of hard work and concentration if you want to be the best you can be. The skills I learned during that time were phenomenal, giving me a strong foundation for both my professional life and the eventual start-up and growth of IDM.
A Defining Challenge
One of the biggest tests I faced came during my third year. The 2008 financial crisis led to a downturn in work, and I was paid off. Suddenly, I faced a choice: do I walk away from my apprenticeship or find a way to keep going? Fortunately, my family were a tremendous support, and I was able to labour for my dad while continuing my training. Eventually, I landed with another employer who saw me through my fourth year, allowing me to pass my skills test.
That experience taught me grit and determination. It showed me I could sink or swim—and I chose to swim.
Mentors Who Shaped Me
Throughout my apprenticeship, my parents and grandparents were constant sources of encouragement. The last thing my grandpa ever said to me was “never give up,” a phrase that’s stayed with me ever since, even if it does make me a bit stubborn at times!
I also remember a piece of advice from one of my journeymen, Oz. He told me everyone I work with will teach me both good and bad things—it’s up to me to keep the good bits and bin the rest. It’s a principle that still guides me today.
The Importance of High-Quality Apprenticeships
From where I stand, high-quality apprenticeships are absolutely vital to the survival of the trades. Too many organisations slap the label “apprenticeship” onto something that isn’t a meaningful learning experience. Instead, apprentices end up as cheap labour who lack proper, cross-industry training. Not only is that devastating for the confidence of the apprentice, but it also contributes to the skills shortage. Eventually, you get people who have qualified on paper but haven’t developed the real-world, hands-on expertise the job demands.
There must be more support for businesses that truly want to nurture the next generation. An employer should invest in apprentices in such a way that these new recruits actually become better than we ever were. If that doesn’t happen, we have to ask ourselves if we’ve really given them a proper opportunity.
Overcoming Hard Times
Being laid off in my third year was probably my biggest hurdle. I was lucky enough to have a supportive network who taught me the value of perseverance. It’s not always easy, but if you really want something, you’ve got to push through even the most difficult times.
Why Employers Win with Apprentices
For businesses, apprentices bring fresh ideas and an energetic perspective. They also gain a real understanding of what the company stands for because they’re growing with it from the ground up. They revitalise the workplace with their enthusiasm, and there’s nothing quite like giving someone a chance to learn, grow, and eventually excel. If an employer is on the fence, I’d say don’t be. Yes, there can be challenges, but on the whole, it’s incredibly rewarding. After all, someone gave each of us a chance at some point.
Personal Growth
On a personal level, my apprenticeship shaped me far beyond just picking up technical skills. It taught me resilience, the importance of safety, and a willingness to listen to others. I truly believe I wouldn’t be where I am today—or in the position to offer these kinds of opportunities to others—if I’d followed a more passive path.
Advice for Future Apprentices
If you’re thinking about taking on an apprenticeship, grab the bull by the horns. Surround yourself with people who genuinely support you, who give honest feedback, and who will step in when you need help (and also let you know if you’re getting too big for your boots!). Remember, you don’t know it all yet—but you can learn almost anything if you keep an open mind and a willingness to listen.
Looking Ahead
Apprenticeships have long been undervalued, and now the trades are facing a genuine crisis. We need to elevate apprenticeships to the same level of respect as any other form of higher education. While it’s vital to teach new techniques and technologies, we also shouldn’t lose sight of older skills—people still need the know-how to maintain existing infrastructure. If we don’t keep investing in apprenticeships, our infrastructure will eventually fail, and life as we know it could look very different indeed.
Apprentices are the next generation of tradespeople, entrepreneurs, and business owners. Without thorough investment in them, our future could be a place none of us want to live in.
Conclusion
My own journey has taught me that apprenticeships aren’t just about mastering a trade; they’re about building character, resilience, and a strong sense of community. From the challenges of being laid off to the joy of seeing others learn and grow, I’ve experienced first-hand the power of high-quality apprenticeships. They are crucial to bridging the skills gap, sustaining the industries we rely on, and inspiring the next generation of innovators.
If you’re considering one, or thinking of offering one, don’t hold back. An apprenticeship done right can change a life—and maybe even the future of the trades.
