NAW 2025 – Celebration Friday

It’s #CelebrationFriday and we wanted to highlight the inspiring journey of James Mintram, who recently celebrated his 10 year Anniversary with Hopkins. Starting as an apprentice in January 2015, James has progressed to Senior Designer, exemplifying the value of apprenticeships in professional development.

Reflecting on his path, James shared:

“I began my apprenticeship in January 2015 with no prior experience in engineering and construction. Over 7.5 years, I completed an ONC, HND, and BEng, developing technical, communication, and management skills, which led to my promotion to Senior Engineer in 2024.

Choosing an apprenticeship was a strategic decision. With rising university tuition fees, I saw it as a practical alternative, offering hands-on experience and a clear career path without the financial burden.

One memorable project was the Lidl Richmond development, featuring a Lidl store and a school above it in a densely populated area. It provided valuable real-world experience.

Despite academic challenges, the apprenticeship’s structure, with day-release for studies, allowed me to balance learning effectively. Hopkins supported me with time off during exams and mentorship from senior engineers.
Now as a Senior Engineer, I apply the skills I developed, from report writing to mentoring Junior Engineers. The apprenticeship was key to my career growth.

The main takeaway from my journey is that great achievements take time and effort. The apprenticeship not only gave me technical expertise but also built my confidence.

I highly recommend the apprenticeship at Hopkins. It’s a long-term commitment, but the rewards are substantial: no debt, financial advantages, and a supportive environment with graduates ready to help.

Looking ahead, I aim to join the senior management team in the next 5–10 years. The apprenticeship gave me a deep understanding of the company, which will be invaluable in leadership roles.

I’m inspired by leaders like Jason Parker and Neal Haworth, who started as apprentices and now lead the company. I also owe much to Paul Wright for his guidance and support throughout my journey.

My apprenticeship at Hopkins has been transformative, shaping my career and personal growth and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”

His line manager, Paul Wright, commended James’s dedication:

“James has consistently demonstrated a clear sense of purpose and direction, tackling complex tasks and driving the delivery of high-value projects. His ability to address challenges head-on and deliver exceptional work has been invaluable to the team.”

James’s journey underscores the transformative power of apprenticeships in shaping careers and contributing to company success. His story serves as an inspiration to those considering this path. Congratulations on your 10 year anniversary with us James and thank you!

Looking to start a career at Hopkins? Let us know by following the link!
https://lnkd.in/ep3FYVBW

#NAW2025