A dedicated data analyst is developing his skills to push himself further in a career that he loves.
Matthew Wheeler, lives in North Shields and is a Data Co-Ordinator in the Customer Services department of Northern Powergrid.
The 24-year-old joined the region’s largest electricity distribution network just over two years ago after studying Maths at Newcastle University.
His role sees him using data and statistics to ensure Northern Powergrid can manage their assets and report on real world work completed across the business to keep the lights on.
He had been in his role about 18 months when a lunch and learn session during Learning at Work Week piqued his interest in an apprenticeship to support his role.
This week (10 – 16 February 2025) is National Apprenticeship Week, a chance to bring together everyone passionate about apprenticeships and skills to celebrate the value, benefit, and opportunity that they bring.
Apprenticeships at Northern Powergrid are focused on creating ‘Skills for Life’, transferable and practical skills that benefit that both employers and employees no matter the role.
Ranging from Power Engineering apprenticeships, to Customer Service, to Business Administration, and even Management and Leadership degree apprenticeships, Northern Powergrid is committed to developing their workforce.
When asked about his apprenticeship, Matthew said “Around six months ago, I went to a lunch and learn session during Learning at Work Week to find out more about the apprenticeships that could supplement my role.
“I’m doing an apprenticeship in Data Analysis at a Level 4 and it’s opening me up to using new applications to make my job and my team’s job easier through embracing technology.
“I really enjoy learning whilst I work because I’m putting the new skills into practice almost immediately, so I know the development is helping my career.
“I get to work on different databases using different data which makes every day different and what makes it enjoyable.
“The support I’ve received through my apprenticeship, from Northern Powergrid and with my professional mentor, has really helped me grow both professionally and personally.
“The opportunity that I’ve had to do this apprenticeship has been invaluable, there is a direct path of progression for me, and it keeps me motivated.”
Chris Morris, Head of Customer Service Support at Northern Powergrid, said “Hearing Matthew speak so positively about the mentors he has through his apprenticeship is so comforting.
“It means he can ask practical in depth questions to his mentors and apply the feedback to his apprenticeship work and his job at Northern Powergrid.
“Matthew took the opportunity to get involved with some of the great employee development possibilities that we have and has gone from strength to strength.
“Learning whilst earning means so many more people can grow their skills and confidence in their career.”
Feeling powered-up and inspired? Northern Powergrid is recruiting now for Power Engineer apprenticeship programme.
Applications are open until 2 March 2025, with an expected start date of 15 September 2025.
All other open vacancies can be found and applied for via northernpowergrid.com/careers
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