Billy completes his apprenticeship at HMK

As part of National Apprenticeship Week, HMK is celebrating the success of our apprentice, Billy Finneron, who has recently completed his apprenticeship.

National Apprenticeship Week runs from February 10 – 16 and aims to highlight the value, benefit, and opportunities that apprenticeships bring to both individuals and businesses.

Billy first joined the HMK team in 2023 as our Business Administration Apprentice - a programme run in partnership with Macclesfield College, where he attended online lessons while gaining valuable hands-on experience at HMK.

Now, after 18 months of dedication and hard work, Billy has finished the apprenticeship, passing with flying colours after achieving an impressive 96% in his final knowledge test.

Reflecting on his journey, Billy shared how beneficial the apprenticeship route has been.

“I’ve really enjoyed being surrounded by experienced colleagues at HMK who were always there to offer support when I needed it,” he said.

“The apprenticeship has really suited my style of learning, and the guidance from HMK, especially from my line manager Jen, has been a key part of my progression.”

Now aged 19, Billy is pleased to have completed his apprenticeship and sees it as a valuable step in his career.

He added: “I feel proud to have now finished the apprenticeship, and all the hard work and effort have definitely been worth it. It’s been a great opportunity to develop both professionally and personally.

“I would highly recommend the apprenticeship route, especially for anyone who enjoys active learning. It’s not just about gaining knowledge from the course itself, but also about learning how to conduct yourself in a professional environment, and for me, it has also really helped boost my confidence.”

Billy’s manager, Jen Edwards, is a great example of how apprenticeships can lead to long-term career growth. She joined HMK as an apprentice 18 years ago at the age of 17 and has since progressed to Logistics Manager, overseeing the company’s entire ordering and shipping operation, and managing a team of people.

Gary Kitchin, Managing Director at HMK, added: “Apprenticeships provide a great opportunity for young people to gain the skills they need for a successful career, while also getting hands-on experience in the workplace.

“At HMK, we’re proud of our home-grown apprenticeship programme, which has helped many of our team members grow professionally. We’ve seen first-hand how it builds confidence and creates real, long-term career opportunities.

“Billy’s success is a great reflection of what apprenticeships can offer, and we’re proud of everything he’s accomplished. Just like Jen, whose own career began with an apprenticeship, Billy’s achievement highlights the lasting impact these programmes can have.”