There are many benefits to being an EngTech, both for technicians and the companies they work for. Engineering Technicians can gain a professional status that is recognised by the worldwide engineering community, enhancing their career prospects in the long term. For the companies that promote EngTech, it’s a great way to motivate and retain qualified and experienced staff, demonstrate commitment to life-long learning and show potential clients that they employ the highest calibre of technicians.
Keith Wylie EngTech MIMechE joined the RAF in 2000 where he did his engineering apprenticeship. He left 13 years later, and entered civilian life. “I quickly realised that I had lots of transferable skills, gained from my RAF career. My organisational skills and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances quickly are invaluable in my civilian role.”
Keith is the UK Engineering Manager at Heat Trace Ltd, a global company providing complete trace heating solutions. His role is varied and includes design of trace heating systems in hazardous areas, project and contract management, completing tender bids focused on the oil, gas, chemical and process industries, as well as managing a project and installation team. Keith has responsibility for the success of a number of company projects: “The chance to see a project from initial concept and design through to its completion is very rewarding.”
Keith became EngTech registered in 2011: “I applied for EngTech as I wanted to be recognised for my experience and knowledge after progressing through the apprenticeship route. When I left the RAF, it helped me to stand out from my peers going for similar jobs in the civilian work place.” He is now working towards IEng, through the Career Learning Assessment route, and hopes to return to university to updated his skills and become a Chartered Engineer.
Keith mentors the company’s engineering apprentices helping them to develop the life and work skills needed to succeed. “Apprentices often see finishing their course as the final goal,” Keith explains. “But with ever changing technology, individuals must embrace lifelong learning and not be left behind. Careers rarely take the route that we expect so it is important to update your skills.”
He has been greatly involved in volunteering for the Institution, as a STEM Ambassador and he is a member of his local committee in Merseyside and North Wales. He helps to elect new EngTech members by supporting and assessing membership applications for the IMechE ETAG: “My voluntary work in assessing membership applications is very rewarding and interesting as I assess aspiring EngTechs from very different industries.”
Keith is a committed supporter of EngTech registration, “I believe professional registration is crucial for developing our young engineers and creating a strong engineering sector for the UK.”
“The UK has a massive pool of talent, which often goes unrecognised. Helping apprentices become recognised, supporting colleges to offer approved courses and updating engineering companies are all important ways to fill the huge skills gap that is out there.”
Keith was very pleased to receive this award. “It was very unexpected but I’m really proud. Lots of people are working all over the country in their own time encouraging apprentices and driving the ‘EngTech Now’ initiative, but I am very grateful for this recognition. The Institution continues to support me with my own CPD, and this is my way of giving something back”.
Read about all the awards recognised at the Vision Awards