Eamonn Maynes

I am a past pupil of the Rainey Endowed Grammar School, Magherafelt where I achieved 9 GCSE grades.

With a keen interest in craft type work I felt a skilled role where I could use my hands would be the most suitable for me. This is why I chose to apply for an apprenticeship with NIE as it was renowned as a reputable company.

When I started with NIE I initially got an insight into overhead lines, plant maintenance and cable jointing roles. Following this initial training, in conjunction with the company, I chose Cable Jointing as my area of training, working on all LV cables for the first 6 month period, closely supervised by one of the company’s training instructor.

From this I went out to work on sites with different teams, getting to put my training into practice, working on the cable system. Some of the most challenging training I’ve had has been in specialised cable systems with highly skilled specialist craftspeople. These cable systems are eventually what I hope to work on.

My work involves connecting new customer supplies, repairing faults and upgrading the cable network.

At this stage, I have just entered my third and final year of my apprenticeship with NIE. I have so far achieved an NVQ level 2 in transmission and distribution engineering and nearly completed level 3, as well as a BTEC National Certificate in Electrical and Electronic Engineering.

In 2007, I was awarded the Northern Ireland Apprentice of the Year Award by the Department of Employment and Learning. This has been one of my greatest achievements to date.