Matthew, Team Leader

How long have you worked for Wessex Water?

Seven and a half years. 

How did you apply?

I learned about the apprenticeship through my uncle, who works for Wessex Water, and I applied online.

What attracted you to Wessex Water in the first place?

I have always been interested in the construction industry. I wanted to gain knowledge and experience working with different types of machinery, such as excavators and dumpers. So, when I saw an apprenticeship opportunity with Wessex Water, to gain that experience, I took it with both hands. I also love working outside and meeting new people.

What does your job entail and what do you most enjoy about the role?

I’m a Team Leader for Sustainable Operations and Engineering (SOE) Small Schemes and Streamlined Asset Solutions. I currently work in a team of four people to lay new or renew sewage pumping mains. This can be done in many different ways, such as open cut, pipe bursting, slip lining or horizontal directional drilling.

I enjoy my job because it can be challenging, which makes it feel more like an achievement when I complete a task that has been given to me. I have met lots of new people who I wouldn’t have met if I hadn’t chosen this career. I also like working outside when the weather is nice.

Tell us about your team and what you like most about working with them

I work in a small team of four people. Ready to take on anything set for us, we all like to banter and help each other achieve what we have to do for the day. I also have a foreman and a manager above me, who are there to guide me through my job and are always on the end of the phone if I have questions.

Why do you think Wessex Water is a great place to work?

Wessex Water is a great place to work as there is a lot of opportunity to progress in your career or even change your career if necessary. For example, you can be out digging on burst water mains to repair them or designing jobs for future work.

The people at Wessex Water are friendly and kind. Everyone tries their best to help each other so no one is left behind.

What do you enjoy most when not working?

At home, I like to try to keep myself fit and healthy by going to my local gym. Me and my girlfriend try and see the family most weekends, but we also travel as much as we can, either weekends away or two-week holidays abroad.