Being Pick Everard
National Apprenticeship Week 2025 - Harvi Weatherall
11 Feb 2025
During National Apprenticeship Week, we hear from Harvi Weatherall, Assistant Building Services Engineer on his journey as an apprentice engineer at Pick Everard. Harvi shares how his apprenticeship has helped him grow professionally and personally, the challenges of balancing work and study, and the invaluable support from his mentor and team.
What inspired you to take up an apprenticeship?
The opportunity to further my education while gaining professional experience was what initially inspired me to explore the apprenticeship route.
How has your apprenticeship helped you grow professionally and personally?
Working as an apprentice has provided me with the opportunity to grow professionally by being fully integrated into the team at my office. I gain valuable experience by working alongside senior engineers who bring a wealth of knowledge and are always willing to share it to help me develop my skills as an apprentice engineer. Additionally, I’ve grown personally, becoming more confident through being part of a professional environment from a young age.
What has been the most challenging aspect of your apprenticeship, and how did you overcome it?
Balancing my workload as well as my studies can become challenging at certain times of the year, especially around exam season or when I have assignments to complete. It’s important to recognise this so you can plan and manage your time accordingly. Good time management and support from Pick Everard helps me to overcome this. Ultimately, my studies come first, and the company recognises this allowing me time to work on assignments and exams when needed.
Have you had a mentor during your apprenticeship? If so, how have they helped you?
Yes, I was assigned a mentor when I first joined the practice. My mentor helped me grow into my roll by exposing to me to all kinds of aspects of the job but also provided support when I’ve needed it. They’ve pushed me to challenge myself by slowly giving me more responsibility within my role and been someone I can go to for help when I need it whether its work-related issues or personal.
What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship in this industry?
Go for it! The idea of working full-time in a professional industry at the age of 18 can seem daunting, but there is so much to gain and so much to learn. There are constant opportunities to grow and develop. It’s definitely an option worth considering for the experience and financial benefits, but make sure to do your research. Apprenticeships can be long-term commitments – for example, mine is five years – so take the time to thoroughly understand the role you’re applying for.