Student Success Story is David Bodkin, who trained to become a qualified electrician with Able Skills, completing his City & Guilds Level 2 & 3, and 18th Edition qualifications.

We launched our Student Success Stories series to shine a spotlight on all the incredible and varied things Able Skills graduates go on to achieve once they’ve completed their training. 

Whether it’s launching their own company, working their way up through an established trade business or pursuing further specialist training to truly hone their skill set—everyone’s story is entirely unique and we always love hearing them.

For our latest instalment, we caught up with David Bodkin, who completed his Level 2 & 3 C&G electrical courses, along with his 18th Edition training with Able Skills—and who has since gone on to work as an industrial electrician. 

What is your typical working day?

A variety in day-to-day tasks is one of the industry’s biggest appeals to David, as is the often challenging nature of the work he’s called upon to complete. 

“My days involve carrying out electrical work right across the industrial sector. This can range from maintenance and repairs to installation of entirely new systems. 

“What I enjoy most is the diversity of the day-to-day tasks, and the fact that the work can be challenging at times—the problem-solving side of things can be really rewarding.

“One of the first jobs I had was on a gas turbine power plant which I’d never been in before—that was pretty awesome”

How important was your training? 

“I don't believe I would have been successful in gaining the employment I have without the training and qualifications I have obtained through Able Skills.”

What advice would you give to someone just entering the industry? 

When asked about the key things he’d learned from both his time spent training and working within the electrical industry, David particularly stressed the importance of taking health and safety seriously. 

“You might find the metal work tedious at first, but you will definitely need to appreciate it if you plan on going into industrial work. 

“Health and safety might seem a little arduous at times, but it is serious in this sector. Finally, three-phase, and star and delta connections are both something that can be difficult to get your head around, but Able skills will go through them in great detail.” 

Want to hear more stories like David’s? Check out the rest of our Student Success Stories series.

Electrician Training Courses

Our combined Level 2 & 3 City & Guilds electrical course strikes a balance between hands-on practical workshops and essential classroom learning. It’s ideal for anyone looking to switch careers to electrical, and wants the option to work in either a domestic, commercial or industrial setting. The Level 3 qualification also covers an advanced understanding of electrical science, inspection & testing procedures, fault diagnosis and rectification and installation design.

The 18th Edition course is entirely theory-based, and ensures participants are familiar with the layout, content and application of BS 7671:2018. The programme covers the latest industry regulations on wiring and the safe use and operation of electrical equipment and systems, and is completed via an online examination at the end.

Interested in beginning your electrical career?

The C&G Level 2 course is the perfect entry point that merges practical and theory learning, developing a strong base knowledge that unlocks a variety of further training routes upon completion.

Need a little more information? Our friendly team would be happy to help. Give us a call on 01322 280 202, request a brochure or pop into our training centre for a chat.