In October, we welcomed Matthew Halladay, who joined us as an apprentice on a three-year degree in Low Carbon Energy, Efficiency and Sustainability. The degree is run by Wrexham University, and Matthew will be able to earn a BEng (Hons) whilst gaining hands-on experience of working within a renewable energy company. The scheme will also enable Matthew to gain a degree without debt, as there are no fees for those studying as part of the Degree Apprentice programme.
Matthew has A levels in sciences and, interestingly, initially embarked on a degree in Architecture and Engineering. However, partway into this degree, whilst studying the Passivhaus standard, he realised that he was far more fascinated by the engineering and calculations behind this energy-efficient design standard than anything else, and this led him to pursue his current studies. He attends Wrexham Glyndwr University once a week, where he is immersing himself in the world of renewable energy. A recent discussion explored how to integrate renewable technology into society, and how to overcome scepticism that renewable energy is not a viable long-term option on its own.
The aim of the degree over the next three years is to provide a deep understanding of the critical field of renewable energy engineering. Areas covered will include: analytical engineering techniques, engineering and operations management, and future energy systems and sustainability.
Matthew commented:
“I’ve worked and studied at the same time before, but never with the relevance that I have now. It’s wonderful being able to sit in a lecture hall and discuss theory, then come to work and see people actually building things that provide cost-effective low carbon solutions, and not just for a few, but everybody. And I’ve only just started – I’m really looking forward to being a part of solutions that will build a better planet for everyone.”
Matthew has relocated from Surrey to our HQ in Machynlleth, Mid Wales, and is enjoying the wonderful surrounding countryside. He has also started learning Welsh, which is no mean feat alongside working and studying for a degree! Matthew says he is no stranger to working and studying so we are sure he has it covered!
Andy Skipton-Carter, Commercial Lead for Consulting at Dulas, commented:
“Our renewables business is growing, and we welcome recruits like Matthew with such an interest in renewable technologies, a commitment to hard work and a real desire to learn. As we transition to a low carbon economy, we will need many more like him. We are delighted to provide this opportunity to Matthew – he will receive on-the-job training and will get to work on an array of renewable projects covering wind, solar, hydro-electric, energy storage and green hydrogen technologies. Welcome to the team, Matthew!”
