My apprenticeship journey: Mike Gammack

We continue our celebration of National Apprenticeship Week, with an interview with Echelon Associate Consultant Mike Gammack, who embarked on a Painting and Decorating Apprenticeship in 1981 at the age of 16.

Prior to joining the team at Echelon, Mike has held Managing Director and Regional Director roles in both the public and private sectors.

He talks about his apprenticeship journey and how it opened the door to a varied and successful career.

What was your apprenticeship in?

Painting and Decorating, I initially did a three-year craft apprenticeship and then a further year to obtain an advanced level qualification. We were taught basic skills, as well as gold leafing, graining, signwriting and spraying all whilst working for some really top-end businesses throughout London and the West End.

What was the motivation for starting your apprenticeship?

I never really considered an academic pathway as they were not really promoted at the school careers sessions. I also missed a lot of the final year at secondary school due to illness. which played a major factor in the school educational results I achieved.

In your opinion what are the benefits of apprenticeships compared to other educational paths?

Being able to earn whilst you worked was an incentive. City and Guilds apprenticeships were readily available in 1981 and paid well.

How has your apprenticeship helped you in your career development?

It gave me visibility of the other career opportunities that were available once I started work. After joining a Local Authority in London I was able to secure fully-funded training to go polytechnic, and then university.

Mike's apprenticeship journey

Mike in the early days of his apprenticeship

Can you tell me about any memorable experiences/challenges that you’ve faced in your career to date?

The main challenge was realising that I wanted to learn more about construction management after completing my apprenticeship. I took up the role of Chairperson at a local Further Education institution to explore ways to promote and develop the future workforce.

What advice would you give to anybody considering an apprenticeship?

The apprenticeship is the start of your career, it doesn’t have to be what you will ultimately end up doing. How does anyone know at 16 want they really want to do as their career?

It is an excellent way to learn about businesses from the bottom up and to be able to earn while you learn.