Archie McDavitt, a Mechanical Design Apprentice at Oxford Quantum Circuits, chose an apprenticeship as the ideal way to gain real-world experience while earning his degree. He was eager to start working but still wanted to achieve his qualifications, and an apprenticeship allowed him to do both. By combining hands-on learning with academic study, he found the perfect route to develop his skills and advance his career.
A key achievement for Archie has been mastering CAD software. Now a certified associate at SolidWorks, he excelled in his course, achieving full marks on his test. His role involves designing and modifying 3D components, overseeing their production, and ensuring their quality—an experience that has strengthened his technical abilities and deepened his understanding of mechanical design.
Encouraging others to explore apprenticeships, Archie emphasises the value of gaining work experience alongside formal education.
"Definitely do it. It’s really worth it. You get years of experience on top of your degree and qualifications, and you get paid."
His journey highlights the advantages of apprenticeships, offering an alternative to traditional education while equipping individuals with practical expertise, industry knowledge, and a strong foundation for future career success.