by Jenkins & Davies Engineering
For over five decades, Jenkins & Davies Engineering has proudly championed apprenticeships as the cornerstone of its business. Operating across the UK and Ireland, the company specialises in pipework and steelwork fabrication, assembly, and mechanical services for the energy, marine and utilities sectors. Since the 1970s, its apprenticeship scheme has provided young people with the technical skills, hands-on experience, and professional development needed to thrive in engineering.
But at Jenkins & Davies, the journey doesn’t end when the apprenticeship does. The company has pioneered a fourth year of structured support — known as the Improvership — designed to help newly qualified tradespeople transition confidently into the workforce. This model underscores a vital truth: mentoring is the bridge between training and site integration.
Apprenticeships as a Foundation
Each year, Jenkins & Davies recruits apprentices in pipefitting, fabrication/plating and welding. Through partnerships with Pembrokeshire College and the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB), apprentices benefit from both academic learning and workplace practice. Work experience placements further strengthen ties with local education providers, creating pathways into engineering careers for young people in the community.
The results speak for themselves: nearly 90% of workshop tradespeople and over 40% of the management team began their careers as Jenkins & Davies apprentices. This remarkable retention rate reflects not only the programme’s strength but also the company’s commitment to nurturing talent.
The Role of Mentorship
Mentorship is at the heart of Jenkins & Davies’ success. Experienced staff take pride in guiding apprentices, passing on their knowledge of safety, quality and trade skills. This culture of support fosters strong relationships and a sense of belonging, encouraging apprentices to remain with the company; and within the industry.
As Gary Price, EHS Manager, explains:
“Retaining talent after apprenticeship completion is vital, not just for our business, but for the industry. Our culture of mentorship ensures apprentices feel valued, respected and supported from day one.”
The Improvership: A Year of Transition
The Improvership is a structured year following the three-year apprenticeship, designed to ease the transition into client-facing roles. Newly qualified tradespeople are gradually introduced to site work, supported by mentors who help them build confidence and competence. This approach ensures they gain not only technical expertise but also life skills, from teamwork and communication to resilience and adaptability.
Liam Ward, Welding Inspector, highlights the importance of this stage:
“Most of us began our careers as apprentices, so we understand the challenges of transitioning into the workforce. That’s why we make a conscious effort to welcome and support young people. They’re not seen as a burden; they quickly become valued contributors.”
Balancing Client Expectations
Introducing newly trained staff can raise concerns for clients focused on productivity. Jenkins & Davies addresses this by working closely with clients to demonstrate the long-term value of investing in a skilled workforce. Real-world training is essential, and with client support, the company builds capacity for future projects.
Robert Gibson, Workshops/Production Manager, explains:
“Involving young people ultimately strengthens delivery and expands our talent pool. With client understanding, we can balance immediate productivity with long-term sustainability.”
Voices of Apprentices
For apprentices themselves, mentorship makes all the difference.
Charlie Clark, Apprentice Plater, shares:
“Going on-site and applying what we’ve learned in workshops and classrooms is a big step; it almost feels like starting over. But the support from experienced tradespeople is invaluable. Seeing our efforts making an impact is rewarding, and the industry offers long-term, sustainable career opportunities.”
Former apprentice Emily Watkins, now a welder, adds:
“As a woman in engineering, my apprenticeship was a gateway to a fulfilling career. Mentorship and respect helped me thrive, and I’m proud to be part of a workforce that’s evolving and becoming more inclusive.”
Investing in the Future
For Jenkins & Davies, the apprenticeship and improvership programme is more than training, it’s an investment in people, community and the future of engineering. By embedding mentorship into every stage of development, the company builds a resilient, skilled workforce ready to meet the challenges ahead, from renewables to hydrogen and carbon capture.
As Gary Price concludes:
“The future is bright, and we’re excited to help the next generation grow and prosper.”