Starting off on a path towards a career of graphic design that saw him establish his own wedding event services, Ismaeel has always had an interest in engineering. Influenced by his father’s aspiration to take on jobs that others would use professionals for, he eventually reached an epiphany and changed tack. This saw him join 4way, having been introduced by his brother, and start a level 3 BTEC engineering apprenticeship in advanced manufacturing at Warwickshire College Group.

Over the next four years, Ismaeel would spend time on day release from work learning theory and practical skills at college, then apply those skills in his project work. This proved to be a positive combination, allowing him to thrive and giving him the support he needed to balance work and study. His course project was a particular highlight, with his experience at work providing an ideal topic to focus on and input from colleagues to help refine its scope, ultimately resulting in his efforts receiving a distinction.  This set him up well for his end point assessment and ultimately him successfully completing the course and receiving his EngTech from the Institute for Mechanical Engineering.

4way is proud to have another apprentice graduate, setting them up to grow in their career and act as champions for others looking to balance education and work. Ismaeel celebrated with a date night with his partner, a rare occurrence for parents of two young children, with 4way picking up the bill to top off the evening. Looking forward, he is aiming for his IEng as the next step of continual development and acting as a mentor for others following in his footsteps.

Reflecting on his achievement, Ismaeel said:
“My apprenticeship journey with 4way has been a big step forward in my career and a key moment in my life. It showed me that this was the right path to take, especially after spending time trying to figure out what I wanted to do. I’ve learned many useful skills that I now use in my day-to-day work, and I’ve had great support from both 4way and my colleagues, which has helped me grow both professionally and personally.

Now that I know what support is available to me here at 4way, I feel confident and ready to keep moving forward in my career.“