INTERVIEW | SPARKS
SPARKY SPOTLIGHT JOE AND MATT
Q
SPARKS MAGAZINE: Why did you both decide on the electrical trade?
Joe: I was working as an estate agent. I bought my first house and really enjoyed doing the renovation work, so I decided to retrain in the trade. Matt: My dad was a project developer so I’ve grown up on building sites. I remember watching the electrician on site and knowing that’s what I wanted to do.
Q
SPARKS: How did you go about finding an apprenticeship?
Joe: I actually paid for my apprenticeship at Kendal College as I had been to university already. Matt: After deciding that I wanted to do an electrical apprenticeship, I discovered the trade community on Instagram. I saw JE Electrical on there and realised that he was based near me. I messaged him, asked for a day or two of work experience and he agreed. Eventually I asked Joe if he was able to take me on as an apprentice and he said yes!
Q
SPARKS: What’s the worst part of your trade?
Joe: DIYers who have had a go… and cleaning up! Matt: Going into a loft in the summer when it’s hot.
Q
SPARKS: What’s your advice for getting the most out of an apprenticeship? Joe: Ask questions all the time, be keen to learn. If you don’t understand, just ask.
JE ELECTRICAL
Joe Eaton retrained as an apprentice aged 23, starting his own business at 27. Four years ago, Matt Barker contacted Joe on IG to ask about work experience places and has since become Joe’s apprentice. We had a chat with them about being a sparky. Matt: Listen carefully and don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions!
Q
SPARKS: Which bit of new technology are you most interested in? Joe: Solar/battery installation. I have just done the course so I can fit them. Matt: Smart home systems such as ring cameras, nest/hive heating systems and LED feature lighting.
Q
SPARKS: What tools could you not live without?
Joe: VDE Pliers and Milwaukee Packout. Matt: Milwaukee m18 impact driver and Knipex 1000v combination pliers.
Q
SPARKS: Who has been the biggest influence on your career and why? Joe: Myself. I want to grow the business, to be well established and well known. The more effort I put in the more I get out. Matt: Before starting my apprenticeship, I watched a lot of electricians on YouTube like Tom Nagy and Artisan Electrics. Watching their videos inspired me.
Q
SPARKS: How does social media impact your business and learning?
Joe: You get to see lots of other people’s work and get ideas. Matt: The massive trade community on Instagram is amazing. I’ve learnt loads of new tips and tricks from other electricians.
@je_electrical @mattsparkystudent
WHAT I’VE LEARNED: JOE:
■ It’s never too late to change your career. It might be a back step for a couple of years but in the long run it’s totally worth it! ■ If you’re interested, keen and willing to work hard you’ll succeed. ■ Use social media to get in contact with electricians as a way of getting an apprenticeship.
MATT:
■ Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for work experience you don’t ask you don’t get and the worst that can happen is they say no. ■ If you make a mistake, take it as a learning curve. ■ Give solutions, not problems – learnt that one from the boss man!
WWW.SPARKS-MAGAZINE.CO.UK
< 2022 WINTER |
11
