From Marine Engineer to Trainee Smart Metering Expert
Patrick's story
British Gas are now recruiting Trainee Smart Metering Experts. To find out about the role meet Patrick Foley who is currently training at our Academy in Thatcham.
We asked Patrick a few questions about his two months so far with British Gas, and what he feels are the best bits about his job.
When did you start with British Gas Patrick?
Sept 2014
What did you do before you joined British Gas?
I was a marine Engineer in the Royal Navy. This role involved installations and maintenance on the ship and fire fighting
What do you think about our recruitment process?
The online assessment was really good and so was the telephone interview, they rang me at exactly the time they said they would. The mechanical assessment was really easy too
What type of person would make a good Smart Meter Expert?
A people person, someone who can work independently and as part of a team, someone who is friendly and patient.
Tell us about your job.
As I am still in my training period I am either working in the academy building up my skills or out in the field working with a mentor. When I am with the mentor, he generally completes the first job with me watching and then I take over for the rest of the day and he supports me and I build up evidence for my portfolio
What are the best bits about your job?
Not being office based, as I am ex forces an office is not the environment for me. I also really enjoy meeting new people every day, it’s great.
What’s the best thing about working for British Gas?
They really look after you. Whilst I have been in training I have stayed at some great hotels with gyms and great restaurants. Once qualified the salary is good and you can earn a lot more above your basic wage and the training is really good and you get recognised qualifications and my colleagues are great to work with.
What advice would you give someone who wants to do your job?
I would say don’t let the low starting salary put you off or the time away from home, the benefits far outnumber these issues and it does not take you that long to qualify.
What similarities are there in this role to how you worked in the Navy?
Some areas are quite similar, you need to be good at time keeping and managing your time. You work as part of a team again. You need to be resilient and you need to maintain a professional appearance as you are representing British Gas similar to how we represented our country.