Q&A: Life as an Apprentice at North

As part of National Apprenticeship Week, we sat down with Alfie McDaid, an Apprentice Structured Cabling Engineer at North, to hear about his journey so far. From gaining hands-on experience in the field to developing new skills and overcoming challenges, Alfie shares insights into life as an apprentice and how it’s preparing him for the future. 

Q: Can you tell us a bit about your role as an apprentice at North? What does your day-to-day work look like? 

Alfie: The work is really varied. One day, I could be installing network points in a care home, and the next, I might be on an Army base patching in switches or cleaning up a finished site. It can be physically demanding, but that’s part of the job. As an apprentice, I know I don’t have the same experience as the engineers, but that’s why I’m here—to learn from them and develop my skills. 

Q: What’s your favourite thing about being an apprentice? 

Alfie: I’d say the variety of work and the fact that I’m always learning something new. Every day is different, and I get to see first-hand how things are done in the field. I also really like the team aspect—everyone has a role to play, and it feels good to contribute. 

Q: What have been some of the highlights of your apprenticeship so far? 

Alfie: One of the biggest highlights for me was when I completed my first fibre panel. It was a lot of work – I had to strip 12 fibre strands, splice them together, and then install them up into the fibre panel in the correct colour order. It was a big moment because I was working on an Army base, and everything needed to be right the first time. When it all passed without any issues, it was a great feeling. 

Another highlight was learning how to do proper sets when running cables. Instead of just laying them over existing containment or obstacles, I was taught how to route them properly. Picking up new technical skills and then applying them on the job has been really rewarding.  

Q: What kind of training have you received, and how has it helped you develop? 

Alfie: The formal training is more about workplace safety—things like asbestos awareness and working in confined spaces. It’s important because these are real risks on-site. We also get refreshers every year, which keeps everything up to date. College helps with both the practical and theory side, so it’s a good balance. 

Q: How do engineers and colleagues support you in your apprenticeship? 

Alfie: The engineers are great. They’re always willing to help and take the time to explain things. If I have a question, I can just send a quick text or call, and they’ll get back to me. Project managers are also really supportive, especially if there’s an issue with materials or something on-site. The support system is really solid. 

Q: Have you faced any challenges in your role, and how did you overcome them? 

Alfie: I can remember one time I drilled a hole way too big in a wall. It was an easy fix in the end, but it taught me to start with a smaller drill bit and gradually increase the size instead of going all in straight away. The engineers were there to guide me, and now I approach similar tasks with more confidence. 

Q: Where do you see yourself as you progress in your career, and how is your apprenticeship helping you get there? 

Alfie: Honestly, I’m just taking things day by day, but I’d like to work my way up and become an engineer. Maybe even have my own apprentice one day—passing on what I’ve learned would be a good feeling. 

Q: What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship at North? 

Alfie: Listen to the people around you because they know more than you do. The more you take in from experienced engineers, the better you’ll become. 

Q: Would you recommend an apprenticeship at North? 

Alfie: Yeah, I’m really enjoying it. It’s a great way to learn on the job while gaining experience that will set you up for the future.