Not everyone comes into tech or engineering by following the traditional route and at Advantex, that’s exactly what makes our teams so strong.
Some start as apprentices straight from school. Others join later in life, looking for a career with more stability, progression, or a better work–life balance.
For #NAW2026 Opportunity Thursday, we’re celebrating the alternative routes into our industry, people who’ve switched careers, developed new skills, and are now stepping up into senior roles within our installation and engineering teams.
These stories showcase exactly what’s possible when the right training, support and opportunities are in place.
Paul Mole: From Milkman to Project Supervisor
Before joining Advantex, Paul had spent his working life as a milkman. The early starts, long nights and physical demands built a strong work ethic, reliability and a steady approach to problem-solving, qualities that proved invaluable as he looked for a more secure, long-term career.
When he came across our apprenticeship programme, he took the leap and hasn’t looked back.
Paul completed his VQ Solutions apprenticeship in May 2024 with a Distinction to become a Network Cable Installer, built strong onsite experience, and was promoted to Project Supervisor in September 2024, leading projects for key customers including Baker Hughes, Hitachi and Caterpillar.
“Changing careers was a big step, but the support I had at Advantex made it feel achievable. The apprenticeship gave me structure, confidence and a clear path forward and now I’m in a role I genuinely enjoy, leading teams on projects I’m proud to be part of.”
Carl Lewis: From Paving & Fencing to Project Supervisor
Carl joined us in early 2024 after working in paving and fencing, with no previous experience in cabling, installations or IT engineering. What he did bring was a strong work ethic, practical thinking and the drive to build a long-term career.
Through his VQ Solutions apprenticeship, Carl quickly built new technical skills, achieved a Distinction as a Network Cable Installer, and proved himself on complex customer sites. In January 2026, he was promoted to Project Supervisor.
Today, Carl leads teams across major installation projects and plays a key part in driving consistent, high-quality work across our delivery teams.
A Growing Pipeline of Future Supervisors
Our commitment to developing talent continues well beyond qualification, with several more former apprentices moving toward supervisory roles as they gain experience and confidence. It’s a reflection of the strong internal development routes we’ve built and the opportunities available for those who want to step up.
Apprenticeships as a Platform for Long-Term Development
A key advantage of our apprenticeship pathway is that it opens the door to ongoing career development. Once qualified, our engineers continue to train in specialist areas including intelligent security solutions, cybersecurity and wider IT infrastructure.
This culture of development is built into everything we do through:
- Regular check-ins and open feedback
- Access to certified training (Cisco, Microsoft, Milestone)
- Clear role progression routes
- Opportunities to work on major industrial and commercial sites
- Mentoring from experienced supervisors and project leads
It’s a structure that helps people grow and stay.
Opening the Door to New Futures
Career changers, school leavers, returning workers, opportunity looks different for everyone. At Advantex, we’re proud to support people at every stage of their journey, whether they’re just starting out, or discovering a new trade.
