Apprenticeship open evening encourages people to “Live Your Future” with United Utilities

20 Jan 2023

The next generation of apprentices are being invited to “Live Your Future” with United Utilities, with more than 30 opportunities available for this year.

Apprenticeships in water and wastewater treatment, construction, bioresources, fleet, customer services and more are on offer at United Utilities to start in September 2023, giving people the chance to begin a career in the water and wastewater industry.

The Warrington-based firm is hosting its first apprenticeship open evening on Monday 6th February to showcase the many opportunities available and give people the chance to find out more. It marks the start of National Apprenticeship Week, a national celebration of apprenticeships and apprentices.

Taking place at the Lingley Mere headquarters in Great Sankey, it will give attendees the chance to learn more about the schemes, meet the hiring managers and current apprentices, and try their hands at some practical activities. There will also be a virtual reality experience to give people the chance to explore a sewer without getting their hands dirty, and colleagues from across the organisation will be on hand to talk about life at United Utilities.

Julie Newton, Head of Organisational Development at United Utilities, said: “We’re really keen to encourage people to consider an apprenticeship at United Utilities. We have so much to offer, from a competitive starting salary and annual leave entitlement, to development opportunities and even 10 free driving lessons.

“We have apprenticeships right across the business, so whether you’ve got a head for figures or like getting hands-on, there could be a perfect role available.”

Adrienne McFarland, People Director at United Utilities, added: “Our apprenticeship open evening is an informal chance to get to know some of our current apprentices and other colleagues and find out what a career with United Utilities could look like.

“I’m really looking forward to showcasing what we have to offer, and as it comes at the start of National Apprenticeship Week it’s a great opportunity to celebrate our current apprentices too and thank them for their continued enthusiasm and commitment.

“Anyone who is unsure whether an apprenticeship is right for them can come along on the night or get in touch through our website, and we’ll be happy to answer any questions and talk through what an apprenticeship could mean for them.”

Sam Johnson joined United Utilities as an Apprentice Credit Controller in September 2021, and in November 2022 he won the Babington Award for Intermediate Apprentice of the Year.

“Working at United Utilities is fantastic,” Sam said. “I get so much support from my mentor, team leader and all my colleagues, and I’m always challenged to develop my skills and take on different opportunities.

“I would recommend anyone thinking about an apprenticeship to apply at United Utilities. It really is a great place to work and you go home knowing that you’re part of something really important for millions of people right across the region – it’s quite amazing to think about!”

United Utilities will also be at the Warrington Job and Apprenticeship Fair at the Warrington Youth Zone on Wednesday 8th February, and will be hosting a number of remote and in-person sessions with schools and colleges across the region.

For more details about the apprenticeships available and to register for the open evening, visit: www.unitedutilities.com/apprenticeships/