I work at Ford’s Engine plant in Dagenham as a Mechanical Electrician. I recently completed my Ford four year apprenticeship in Mechanical Engineering and am currently working in the Fork Lift Truck Repair and Maintenance area. Here we are responsible for repairing and servicing all vehicles including fork lift trucks, specialised buggies, tugs and cranes within the engine plant based at the Dagenham Diesel Centre (DDC). These vehicles are used throughout the plants for a range of different tasks and by different employees from shop floor staff to supervisors, depending on their needs. Without these vehicles, production would not be possible.
How did you get into the job?
I applied for the apprenticeship at Ford whilst taking my GCSEs at school, so this was my first job. When I started my apprenticeship I spent the first two years studying for my BTEC National Certificate in Manufacturing Engineering where I achieved a Double Distinction. The following year I began my three year Foundation Degree in Mechanical Engineering which was in addition to my apprenticeship, where I am now in my final year. Once this is completed I aim to go ahead and achieve my full degree with further studies to attain my B Eng (Hons).
What kinds of training have to succeed in the role?
Training has been a part of my apprenticeship, including work which involves using and repairing hydraulic rigs, electronics and servos, ball screws, basic pneumatics, pumps and alignment and abrasive wheels. I have also obtained my fork lift truck licence during the course of the apprenticeship.
Why did this career path appeal to you?
My main reason for choosing to get into engineering with Ford was because I love anything to do with cars and always have done since I was a young boy. I enjoy my job for many reasons – the camaraderie between workmates, the numerous challenges that I face on a day to day basis and doing a job that will stand me in good stead in the future as my knowledge and qualifications increase. As Ford is a very large and well known company, I like to feel that I’m contributing to its continued success even in the current climate.
Tony Weeks, Ford Dagenham Engineering Manager: “Anthony is an asset to the company, with exceptional drive and enthusiasm. Since Anthony started with the company, I have heard nothing but praise from all he worked with on his ability, unique creativity and initiative. Anthony’s abilities show a promising future as a high class engineer.”
Name: Anthony Prickler
Age: 20
Job role: Mechanical Electrician
Company: Ford
Summary of current job role:
I work at Ford’s Engine plant in Dagenham as a Mechanical Electrician. I recently completed my Ford four year apprenticeship in Mechanical Engineering and am currently working in the Fork Lift Truck Repair and Maintenance area. Here we are responsible for repairing and servicing all vehicles including fork lift trucks, specialised buggies, tugs and cranes within the engine plant based at the Dagenham Diesel Centre (DDC). These vehicles are used throughout the plants for a range of different tasks and by different employees from shop floor staff to supervisors, depending on their needs. Without these vehicles, production would not be possible.
How did you get into the job?
I applied for the apprenticeship at Ford whilst taking my GCSEs at school, so this was my first job. When I started my apprenticeship I spent the first two years studying for my BTEC National Certificate in Manufacturing Engineering where I achieved a Double Distinction. The following year I began my three year Foundation Degree in Mechanical Engineering which was in addition to my apprenticeship, where I am now in my final year. Once this is completed I aim to go ahead and achieve my full degree with further studies to attain my B Eng (Hons).
What kinds of training have to succeed in the role?
Training has been a part of my apprenticeship, including work which involves using and repairing hydraulic rigs, electronics and servos, ball screws, basic pneumatics, pumps and alignment and abrasive wheels. I have also obtained my fork lift truck licence during the course of the apprenticeship.
Why did this career path appeal to you?
My main reason for choosing to get into engineering with Ford was because I love anything to do with cars and always have done since I was a young boy. I enjoy my job for many reasons – the camaraderie between workmates, the numerous challenges that I face on a day to day basis and doing a job that will stand me in good stead in the future as my knowledge and qualifications increase. As Ford is a very large and well known company, I like to feel that I’m contributing to its continued success even in the current climate.
Tony Weeks, Ford Dagenham Engineering Manager: “Anthony is an asset to the company, with exceptional drive and enthusiasm. Since Anthony started with the company, I have heard nothing but praise from all he worked with on his ability, unique creativity and initiative. Anthony’s abilities show a promising future as a high class engineer.”