As part of National Apprenticeship Week, we’re celebrating the people who are shaping the future of the fire, emergency and security systems industry. At Drax360 and the wider Obsequio Group, apprenticeships are a key part of how we develop skilled engineers, pass on technical expertise and build long-term careers across multiple disciplines.
One of those apprentices is Sam Connor, whose journey highlights the value of practical learning, real-world experience and the breadth of opportunity an apprenticeship can offer. We spoke to Sam about why he chose an apprenticeship, the moments that stood out along the way, and what he’s most excited about as he progresses in his career.
Choosing skills over lecture halls
For Sam, the decision between university and an apprenticeship was clear.
“I chose an apprenticeship over university because I wanted to earn money whilst picking up a tangible skill,” he explains. “I could see myself paying a lot of money to go through university and still leaving there without much skill I could go into the real world with.”
Instead, Sam saw an apprenticeship as a way to build a valuable skill set, gain hands-on experience and avoid unnecessary debt – all while learning a trade he genuinely enjoys.
“With an apprenticeship I could build up a valuable skill set and save money whilst doing it – for me, a no brainer!”
The call that made it worthwhile
Securing the right apprenticeship didn’t happen overnight. Sam spent months waiting for the right opportunity, one that would give him both enjoyment and long-term prospects.
“I found out over a phone call that I had secured my apprenticeship; I was over the moon,” he says. “Especially since I had been patiently waiting for nine months for the right apprenticeship, so that I could learn a trade I would enjoy.”
That patience paid off.
“I was so pleased that I was finally getting the opportunity to learn a trade.”
Learning moments that stick
Every apprenticeship comes with moments that change how you see the job, and for Sam, one technical discovery stands out.
“My biggest learning moment would have to be when my college teacher showed me the ‘Repair’ button on Gent Vigilon, which can repair a fire alarm loop without ever needing to pick up a screwdriver!”
What might seem like a small feature had a big impact.
“When I learned this, it completely blew me away as it showcased that there is always more to learn, as well as the real depth and hidden capability of fire panels.”
It’s a reminder that the fire and security industry is constantly evolving, and that even experienced engineers are always learning something new.
Gaining multiple disciplines, not just one
One of the aspects Sam values most about his apprenticeship is the breadth of training it offers.
“The part of my apprenticeship that I’m most excited about is securing my Fire, Emergency and Security Systems Technician qualification,” he explains.
Over the course of his apprenticeship, Sam will be trained across:
- Fire Alarms
- CCTV
- Access Control
- Intruder Alarms
- Video Surveillance Systems (VSS)
“I consider myself lucky to have started an apprenticeship thinking I will only learn fire alarms, when over two years later I will be walking away with five disciplines under my belt.”
That multi-skilled approach reflects the way modern fire and security systems operate – integrated, intelligent and requiring engineers with wide-ranging expertise.
Advice for future fire alarm engineers
For anyone considering an apprenticeship in fire and life safety, Sam’s advice is refreshingly straightforward.
“Just go for it. Don’t overthink it,” he says. “If you think you’ll enjoy it, then just do it.”
He’s also clear about the opportunities the industry offers.
“This is a rewarding, unique trade to learn and the industry has a bright future ahead of it, so don’t leave it too long – now’s the time.”
And his final words reflect the long-term potential apprenticeships can unlock:
“Get stuck in for a few years and then the world is yours!”
Sam’s journey is a great example of how apprenticeships combine practical skills, technical depth and real career progression. At Drax360, we’re proud to support apprentices as they develop into confident, capable engineers who are ready to meet the demands of a fast-moving industry.
As part of National Apprenticeship Week, we’re celebrating not just qualifications, but the commitment, curiosity and enthusiasm apprentices like Sam bring to their roles every day.
