In our 40th year within the energy efficiency industry, we have made it our mission to raise awareness of the energy-saving work our industry delivers and encourage the younger generation to work and grow within this thriving sector.

That’s why when we were approached by the Tyne and Wear Fire & Rescue Service about a young gentleman looking for a work placement, we were delighted to welcome Michael to the team, for a one-week placement through the Prince’s Trust Employability programme, working with our team at our North-East regional office.

The Fire & Rescue Service partner with the Prince’s Trust, to help deliver a 12-week personal development programme for young people aged between 16 and 25. Young people on the programme can gain a certificate in Employability, Teamwork and Community Skills. This fantastic programme teaches young people not in education, skills for life and employment.

Over 40 years, the Prince’s Trust has worked with well over 825,000 young people giving practical and financial support to develop key work skills helping them move into employment, education and training.

Work placement with Dyson Energy Services

From the 11th to the 15th July 2022, Michael worked alongside Andy, one of our experienced Cavity wall Insulation Technicians, on a one-week work placement. It was a great opportunity for Michael to learn more about the energy efficiency industry and the type of work we carry out every day.

Before starting the placement, we gave Michael access to some Health and Safety e-learning courses including slips, trips and falls, Asbestos Awareness and Working at Heights.

Michael worked alongside Andy for the week and was able to pick up valuable insight cavity wall insulation upgrades, learn more about health and safety measures and also witnessed a loft insulation installation.

We asked Michael about his placement with Dyson Energy Services, and here is what he had to say.

Meet Michael

Tell us about yourself

My name is Michael and I live in Hetton le Hole with my Mam & Dad. I am currently on a 12-week course with the Fire & Rescue Service for the Prince’s Trust.

Tell us about the Prince’s Trust course

I’ve been on the course with the Fire & Rescue Service, and I have learnt a lot, how to apply for jobs, doing a CV, helping out with projects within the community, e.g., paint fences, cutting grass. I have also done a residential trip with them to help with me with my development, confidence and leadership skills.

What interested you about the placement with Dyson Energy Services?

I was interested because I wasn’t sure what the company did until I read up on it. It was working outside which I enjoy and also, they work in roofs, and I have done some similar work to this and looked forward to it. I am hoping to get into that kind of work.

How have you found the placement and what activities have you done?

I’ve found out how the process works regarding Cavity Wall Insulation, I have done some drilling and helped with setting up the equipment and making sure health & safety checks were carried out. I also blew some air into the walls which blew the CWI out, during a cavity wall insulation upgrade. I found out how to insulate a loft and the thickness of the insulation that should be in a loft. Andy showed me how to fill the paperwork in.

What was the highlight of your week?

The highlight for me was learning how the insulation got extracted from the walls and working outside.

What have you learnt from your placement?

I have learnt where to drill the holes (drill pattern) and take bricks out and to check if an area has been cleared. I would be interested in seeing how the insulation went into the walls too. I also learnt how to lay loft insulation and the depths they must be.

“I am extremely grateful to Dyson Energy Services”

“I am extremely grateful to Dyson Energy Services for giving Michael the opportunity of a work placement. It’s a requirement of the 12-week Prince’s Trust Team Programme but it has been invaluable in giving Michael vital experience of work, improving skills and boosting confidence.”
Philippa Whitworth, Assistant Team Leader at Tyne & Wear Fire & Rescue Service

 

“We wish Michael well for the future”

Lisa Brown, Office Manager at the North-East regional office at Dyson Energy Services said, “Michael was very willing and eager to learn. He undertook any task given to him and understood why we were doing them. He carried out everything to a high standard and Andy was very happy with him. He completed a number of online Health and Safety courses for us in advance, so he was aware of the tasks ahead. It was a privilege for us to have Michael and we wish him well for the future.”

Michael has joined Dyson Energy Services

Michael’s journey with Dyson didn’t stop after his one-week placement ended.  We are delighted to announce that Michael joined the team as a Trainee Insulation Technician.  We wish Michael all the best in his new role and in developing a thriving career within the energy efficiency industry.