Engineering the Future

Why Apprenticeships are in STA Technical’s DNA

Engineering is a trade learned by doing, a fact STA Technical’s MD, Warren Peters, knows only too well. Having started his own career as an apprentice back in his native New Zealand, STA has been built with the goal of keeping that practical mentorship alive. 

"My apprenticeship in NZ gave me the foundation for everything I’ve achieved," Warren explains. "When I started the business, I knew I wanted to give back. It’s about more than filling roles; it’s about nurturing that engineering talent that you can only truly develop on the shop floor."

That commitment is already paying dividends. Alex Bloomfield came to work at STA back in 2021, aged 16 and on a six week training programme. Five years on, he has completed his Level 3 Welding and Fabrication apprenticeship and is a natural born welder. "Seeing Alex grow from a young trainee to a qualified and first-rate welder has been a real highlight for me," says Warren. "He’s also set a high bar for our second apprentice, Louie, who joins STA this September."

STA also takes pride in being a launchpad for specialised careers. Warren explains, “In October last year we took on 18 year old Oscar who was engineering experience ahead of seeking a Level 6 Engineering apprenticeship; he leaves us this July to start dream role in aviation. We also supported a Paige. Keen to get on the first rung of an engineering career, her work experience at STA proved pivotal in her securing an apprenticeship at the University of Bristol.

As Warren puts it: “STA may only be small, but we’re proud to have created a nurturing environment where talent can really thrive. My goal is for STA to be known as a company where the next generation engineers can come, find their feet and start their future careers.”