From Training to Practice: Learning That Matters
In this blog, we hear from Sam Freeman, Control and Instrumentation Engineer apprentice at GrainLNG, who shares his journey of professional development through his apprenticeship. Sam reflects on his long-standing ambition to pursue a career in engineering and how the apprenticeship has allowed him to gain real-world experience, develop practical skills and earn while learning, all while building a strong foundation for a long-term future in the industry.
“You’ve been given a massive opportunity, so you’ve got to prove your worth and see where it can take you.”
Sam Freeman is a Control and Instrumentation Engineer apprentice at GrainLNG. After wanting this career for years, Sam chose an apprenticeship as a way to gain real-world experience, develop practical skills, and earn while learning, all while working towards a clear long-term future in the industry.
“For me, it’s about the experience you gain while getting paid at the same time. Instead of going to university and paying for accommodation, you come to college and learn on the job; it’s good fun as well.”
Choosing an Apprenticeship Path
Sam’s decision wasn’t made overnight. Two years before starting, he completed work experience in the field, which gave him valuable insight into the role and confirmed this was the career for him.
“I kind of knew what I was going into. I’ve wanted this job for many years, so when I got the apprenticeship, I was very happy.”
Even with this preparation, Sam has continued to learn and grow since officially joining the programme.
Starting the Apprenticeship Journey
Like many starting a new job, Sam admits he felt some nerves at first. But the structured nature of the apprenticeship quickly put him at ease.
“It’s very structured, which is what I like. You know what the next day is going to look like.”
This framework helped him settle into both college life and the workplace with confidence.
Learning That Builds Resilience
One of the biggest lessons Sam has learnt is perseverance.
“To never give up. We’re currently doing a PLC block and sometimes it feels like you can never finish a task. But if you keep working through it, you will get there in the end.”
Alongside technical skills, this mindset has taught him patience and determination when facing challenges.
Learning From Others
Teamwork has been another key area of development. Training at IPS has allowed Sam to work alongside apprentices from across the UK, all employed by different companies.
“You get input from lots of different people and see how things apply to their jobs as well as mine. That’s been really useful.”
This exposure has broadened his understanding of how control and instrumentation principles are applied across various sites and industries.
Putting Training Into Practice
Sam has been able to apply his college learning directly on site. After completing training in wiring and testing, he returned to use a multi-meter to help fault-find an issue.
“I’d only done the block a week before, then I was straight on site using what I’d learnt.”
These moments reinforce the relevance of training and boost confidence on the job.
Growing Trust and Responsibility
As he progresses, Sam has been trusted with a wider range of tools and electrical equipment.
“They give you a bit more leeway as you go through it. You’re always being shadowed, but you’re trusted more.”
This gradual increase in responsibility has helped him feel more confident and capable in his role.
Support Network
Sam highlights the strong support he receives both at college and in the workplace. At IPS, lecturers and tutors guide him through each block, while Grain LNG provides a large, supportive team environment.
“We’ve got a massive team on site who really look out for you. They’re quite a young team as well, which makes it even better.”
Balancing Work and Training
The apprenticeship follows a block-learning model—around four weeks at college followed by time back on site.
“It fits together pretty well. You do your college block, then go back to site and put it into practice.”
Looking to the Future
Sam’s apprenticeship has given him a clear vision for the future. With a development plan through his employer, he knows where he wants to go and what he needs to do to get there.
“I’ve got a clear idea of where I want to be. I’ll keep working hard and hopefully I’ll get there.”
Would You Recommend an Apprenticeship?
Without hesitation, Sam would recommend an apprenticeship.
“100%. I don’t think there’s anything better out there. You still get a similar experience, but you come out with years of work experience, practical skills, and strong relationships with your colleagues.”
What Being an Apprentice Means
For Sam, being an apprentice is about commitment and making the most of the opportunity.
“It means working hard and giving it your all. You’ve been given a massive opportunity, so you’ve got to prove your worth and see where it can take you.”