Pembrokeshire is an exciting place to build a rewarding and interesting career, and now is a great time to consider starting your professional journey as an apprentice.

Branching through the centre of the county, the Milford Haven Waterway connects southwest Wales to global shipping routes, is a major industrial hub, and home to the Port of Milford Haven.

As a Trust Port, the Port of Milford Haven is committed to providing opportunities for future generations, delivering projects that will create jobs, support economic growth and create a bright outlook for the region. The variety of departments within the organisation offer a wide range of professional opportunities for apprentices keen to begin a career at the UK’s leading energy port.

Apprenticeships are an established route for those in their early career or without traditional educational backgrounds to acquire industry-specific qualifications, training and experience. Opportunities in a wide range of departments at the Port are now open for enquiry from prospective applicants, who are warmly encouraged to get in touch.

In 2021, recent college leaver Craig Davies approached the Port of Milford Haven for an apprenticeship in IT, after completing his Practitioner in IT Level 3 course at Pembrokeshire College.

Beginning a two-year period of combined work and study based in the Port’s Digital Solutions and Delivery department, Craig described his apprenticeship as: “Definitely a big step, but I really enjoyed the whole process.

“It was more responsibility than I’d ever had before, but it was a welcome step into the real world. Earning and learning at the same time, plus getting a foot in the door with a big organisation, was invaluable. A lot of places don’t offer someone straight out of college that kind of experience so soon.”

Professionally, there were some clear benefits for Craig. He says, “Meeting others in the same working environment, I got to know people and expanded my knowledge by asking questions and networking, which was great for my career progression. I got out and about, attended training in London, and did a bunch of different courses to further my skills during, and after, the apprenticeship.”

In addition to professional attributes, Craig explains that “socialising and meeting new people” were also big highlights. “Some of the best times were doing things that the Port put on for staff, like team building exercises and social activities. We did an escape room once which was a lot of fun! It really helped to make friends and break the ice.”

Upon completion of his apprenticeship in 2023, Craig moved seamlessly into full-time employment at the Port, stepping up into the role of Junior Systems Administrator.

Craig says: “I really like working at the Port, and no two days are the same. I’ve got my usual office tasks, but sometimes I find myself out on a jetty or over in Pembroke Dock Ferry Terminal, so it’s really a varied job which is exciting. It keeps everything fresh.

“If sitting in a classroom isn’t your learning style, then the hands-on experience you get through an apprenticeship is 100% the best way. And a classroom can’t prepare you for everything!”

So, how does Craig feel about developing his career in Pembrokeshire? “I never wanted to travel further afield or go to university, so seeing an opportunity to build a career here, I grabbed it with both hands!” he says.

“Pembrokeshire’s a lovely place. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”

If you’re interested in learning more about apprenticeships at the Port of Milford Haven, please get in touch on [email protected] for further information.