Cian on his way to degree thanks to ‘perfect’ apprenticeship opportunity

Cian Taylor is well on his way to achieving a degree thanks to his apprenticeship with Joloda Hydraroll through Busnes@LlandrilloMenai.

Cian started with the freight solutions company as an apprentice fitter in 2020, while studying Level 3 Engineering Craft at Coleg Menai in Llangefni.

Since then, he has progressed to a Higher National Certificate (HNC), achieving a distinction last year, and is now six months into his Degree Apprenticeship in Mechanical Engineering Systems.

The Degree Apprenticeship means Cian can study towards a Bachelor of Engineering degree while continuing in his employment. It is awarded by Bangor University - with learners studying with Coleg Menai for two years before transferring to Bangor for their final year of study.

Cian’s qualifications will not only enhance his practical skills and theoretical knowledge, but also open up new opportunities for him to pursue a managerial position within Joloda Hydraroll.

Reflecting on his journey into engineering, Cian said: “When looking at the list of subjects I could choose from at the age of 14 or 15, engineering was the only one that really stood out to me.

“I also liked the idea of being able to earn while still learning and going to college one afternoon a week. However, it wasn’t until I started my apprenticeship and gained the practical experience that I knew how much I enjoyed it.

“I have grown up a lot since taking on my apprenticeship. I didn’t always feel motivated while at school, but securing my apprenticeship gave me a lot of drive to make the most of this opportunity.

“I'm a kinesthetic learner, so being able to gain practical skills in the workplace was a perfect option for me, where I felt able to reach my full potential. Balancing work and study is never easy, but I have proven to myself that I can do it. My HNC graduation last summer was a good feeling.”

Cian’s advice for anyone considering an apprenticeship is to go for it.

He said: “Apprenticeships offer you the best of both worlds: you're able to gain knowledge through a structured education while still working and developing your skills in whatever industry you desire.

“Show dedication and determination to grow and develop, and believe that you can do it. A lot of manufacturing companies are looking to recruit young people right now.”

Joloda Hydraroll designs and manufactures automated and manual loading and unloading solutions, which are used to move freight on and off of vehicles more efficiently.

Much of this happens at its site in Anglesey, which is a worldwide centre of excellence for welding, fabrication and painting, and the company’s UK base for modifying HGV trailers for the home market.

In conjunction with Busnes@LlandrilloMenai - Grŵp Llandrillo Menai’s business and commercial arm - Joloda Hydraroll has run an apprenticeship programme at its Gaerwen manufacturing facility for more than 10 years.

The programme has supported an increasing number of apprentices on Anglesey, many of whom continue to work with Joloda Hydraroll today. This year marks the company’s biggest intake yet, with three apprenticeships available to young people on the island.

Eurfon Davies, Engineering Programme Area Manager at Grŵp Llandrillo Menai, said: “The labour market for young people in North Wales is continually evolving, with apprenticeships playing a vital role in providing career pathways and addressing regional skills shortages.

“In response to economic challenges and a growing need for specialised training in manufacturing, it’s fantastic to see Joloda Hydraroll partnering with Grŵp Llandrillo Menai to create impactful apprenticeship programmes for our young people.

“With industry collaboration, these apprenticeship programmes offer a blend of practical skills and academic learning. This partnership ensures that apprentices are equipped with relevant expertise, enhancing their employability and contributing to the region’s economic growth.

“Investment in apprenticeship training reflects a commitment to the local community and the development of a skilled workforce. Through strategic partnerships like these, the future of the region’s young people is secured, ensuring a strong talent pipeline for years to come."

For companies like Joloda Hydraroll, it’s important to invest in providing local opportunities for young people like Cian, who represent the future of the company. In 2024, across its Anglesey and Liverpool production sites, Joloda Hydraroll hired eight apprentices.

Cian’s line manager is team leader Dieter Griffiths, who said: “Cian is a fantastic addition to the team. He is a testament to the value of Joloda Hydraroll’s apprenticeship programme and the huge amount of talent within it.

“Since joining us four years ago, his achievements have been outstanding, both in his academic and practical work. His passion, enthusiasm and fresh perspective are exactly what we look for, and without the apprenticeship programme, we wouldn't have had the pleasure of working with him.

"Cian’s commitment and drive reflect the kind of young talent that will lead our company forward as we continue to grow."

The deadline for applications to Joloda Hydraroll’s 2025 apprenticeship programme is 1st August. Interested candidates can find out more information by emailing: hello@joloda.com