From REME to Engineering Development Programme

Nine new power firm recruits are on their way to a new career helping to keep the lights on for millions of people.

Electricity distribution firm UK Power Networks, which is responsible for taking electricity to the doors of eight million properties across the East, South East and London, has a new intake for its Engineering Development Programme which sees participants who already have an electrical background, take a step up the career ladder to become a fully qualified engineer.

Former soldier Jimmy Vaudrey is one of nine people on the two-year course which is taking place at the company’s training centre in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk.

The 28-year-old from Rustington, West Sussex, worked in electronics in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers regiment for nine years and took a job as an electrician when he left, before starting work as an overhead linesman with UK Power Networks three years ago.

He said: “I wanted something that gave me some training. I really enjoyed my job as a linesman but took the opportunity to join this programme when it came up as I want to work my way up to become a field engineer.

“UK Power Networks is a good company to work for, they look after you and there are lots of opportunities here.”

Jimmy, who is a keen kayaker and rock climber, grew up in Walton-Le-Dale in Lancashire.

As well as gaining all the necessary skills to take on the role of an engineer within the company, Jimmy will also gain a foundation degree in power distribution at Aston University.

Basil Scarsella, UK Power Networks’ chief executive, said: “It is vital we employ the right people with the right skills. This scheme is a huge success and ensures we can continue to provide the right service for our customers – both now and in the future.”