Building skills the right way: Riley and Emily’s progress as commissioning apprentices at Simmtronic

When Riley and Emily joined Simmtronic in September last year, they stepped into a commissioning apprenticeship built around practical learning from day one. The early focus was on understanding how Simmtronic products work, not just in theory, but at a component level.

Time spent in the workshop, replacements, and office environments gave them space to learn how systems are built and how everything connects before heading out on site. That grounding set them up to handle the pace and variety that followed.

For Riley, this early stage was key to building confidence.

“In my first months in the workshop and in replacements, I really started to understand how the components inside different products allow them to work. Learning why things work has been a big part of that.”

As their apprenticeships progressed, both Riley and Emily moved into more regular site-based work. The structure of those early weeks gave way to varied days, different locations, and new challenges.

One day might involve a busy construction site with multiple trades working at once. Another could be a completed building where clients have already moved in. Learning to adapt quickly became part of the role.

“One day you could be on a construction site with hundreds of people, the next you’re in a clean building where clients have already moved in. You have to expect the unexpected,” Riley explains.

Emily experienced a similar transition. Her early routine involved travelling into the Hoddesdon office to understand products and processes behind the scenes before moving fully into site work.

“Learning how everything works behind the scenes first was essential. Now my days and journeys are varied, and I enjoy having to think harder and solve problems on site.”

Working alongside experienced commissioning teams has exposed both apprentices to a wide range of Simmtronic products, systems, and site conditions. This hands-on exposure has helped turn learning into instinct, as real issues require real solutions.

Problem-solving on site, adapting to different stages of a project, and working with new people each week has become part of everyday life. These experiences build skills that cannot be learned in a classroom alone.

Since starting in September, Riley and Emily have both developed strong technical skills. They feel confident using key commissioning tools such as the sub addressor and understand why ballasts and inverters need addressing as part of a wider system.

Emily has also seen rapid progress on the software side of the role, gaining experience with datafiles and system setup. As familiarity grows, so does trust in their own judgement.

She describes noticing a shift in how she approaches tasks.

“It makes me happy to know that I trust what I’m doing now. I don’t feel the need to ask for reassurance about every step, even though my colleagues are always happy to help.”

Alongside technical skills, both apprentices have grown in confidence personally. Travelling across London, navigating new sites, and speaking to unfamiliar people are now routine parts of the job.

Emily reflects on how much this has changed since she first started.

“I used to be very nervous even getting on a train. Now I’m travelling and using the underground pretty much every day without a worry.”

These experiences build independence and resilience, qualities that matter just as much as technical ability in commissioning roles.

A consistent theme in both Riley and Emily’s journeys is the support around them. Commissioning teams take the time to explain, answer questions, and create an environment where learning is encouraged.

Riley highlights how important this has been.

“Always ask questions. People are willing to help, and building relationships on site makes the job a lot easier and more enjoyable.”

Emily agrees, especially for those entering the industry without prior experience.

“I applied without any electrical or commissioning background, and it’s the best decision I ever made. Seeing what I’m learning put into practice makes it all click.”

Riley and Emily’s progress shows the value of apprenticeships in developing practical, technical skills. With the right structure, exposure, and support, apprentices grow into confident professionals who understand systems, sites, and teamwork from the ground up.

At Simmtronic, apprentices are not observers. They are active contributors, learning through real responsibility and supported by teams committed to their success. That investment helps build the future of commissioning and the practical expertise the industry depends on.

Thinking about how to start your journey?