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We sat down with James Metcalfe, to talk about his apprenticeship and his career through Toyota Material Handling so far.
James joined Toyota Material Handling in 2018, rising through the ranks to become an Engineering Service Manager. After completing his apprenticeship, he entered the Apprentice of the Year competition at the Leicester Business Centre. James won the contest, and his career has since gone from strength to strength.
Why did you choose an apprenticeship with Toyota Material Handling?
“Once my career in a full-time role began, I continued within the company as a Technician at Sainsbury’s regional distribution centre”. This role involved dealing with customer queries, breakdowns, and performing preventive maintenance on all on-site machinery.
“I chose to start an apprenticeship with Toyota for multiple reasons. Firstly, Toyota Material Handling is the market leader in the UK, so I knew this was a great company to work for with plenty of opportunities.”
“From powered pallet trucks to counterbalance machines and even AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles), I’ve worked on it all. That’s why I chose Toyota Material Handling and the material handling industry – every day presents a new and different challenge.”
What skills did you learn through your apprenticeship?
“The main skills I developed were hands-on practical skills. I learned how to use specialist tools as well as standard tools correctly and safely, enabling me to fix and maintain trucks effectively. I also developed teamwork skills throughout the apprenticeship, as you work with other apprentices from across the UK while attending college.
Good customer service skills are important as you assist customers with breakdowns and queries, learning how to communicate effectively and reach a satisfactory conclusion. Confidence is another key skill you gain, starting in Year 1 with limited or no engineering experience, and progressing throughout the apprenticeship is amazing. You can really see how far you’ve come as an individual.”
How has the apprenticeship helped with your progression?
"All the skills I’ve gained as an apprentice have helped me throughout my career so far. The confidence built within the industry, combined with engineering experience and product knowledge, has allowed me to provide excellent customer service and further progress my personal career.
Where did your career lead you next?
“One of the major things that attracted me to Toyota Material Handling was all the benefits that come with working for a large company, such as the opportunity to progress within the business. "I was delighted to get the opportunity to move into the Technical Department as a Technical Product and Training Engineer. My responsibilities in this role included providing training to new engineers within the company, delivering product support, and conducting specialist truck training. This covered automated trucks, new truck models, and new software that technicians needed to use.
“I have now moved into a new role as Engineering Service Manager for the West. This role involves ensuring compliance with relevant trade bodies and technical service support. I work closely with the Service Support Managers to provide technical advice and assistance when required. This includes accident investigations and helping customers have the best possible experience.”
James’ story highlights how apprenticeships can lead to rewarding careers with continuous growth. If you want to take your career to the next level, visit our apprenticeships page for more information on how to apply.