Congratulations to Jack Wallace, our commercial apprentice, who just passed his Level 3 NVQ in Business and Administration! We had a chat with Jack to find out about his time with Genesis and what are his future work plans, plus (more importantly) how he’s going to celebrate his success at the weekend.
How long have you been working at Genesis Homes?
I started my apprenticeship with Carlisle College and Genesis Homes on my birthday two years ago, the 29th of October so, I have worked at Genesis for nearly two years.
What has been your best experience while working for Genesis Homes?
It has got to be the Manchester trip we all went on. We visited Manchester in Spring last year which was so much fun, and we got to meet Manchester poet, Tony Walsh. We visited The Imperial Science Museum and took part in an ‘apprentice style’ task where we were placed into teams and had to make an advert for an item that was local to the city including Vimto, Boddington’s beer and Eccles cakes. The social aspect of the trip was also great!
What is your job within the company and what does your daily routine look like?
I work within the commercial department, this involves buying materials for sites, plant hire and speaking to subcontractors – generally helping where I can. On an average day at head office my routine consists of checking my emails, speaking to Paul who is my Line Manager to see what needs doing during the day, completing tasks that need doing as and when they come in and processing orders. At the end of the day I file and organise my emails so that I am prepared for the next day.
What is the most challenging thing you have had to overcome?
Getting the balance right between College work and work with Genesis, while trying to keep them both at a very high standard.
What would you say to someone who was considering an apprenticeship?
I would highly recommend an apprenticeship as you get treated like an adult, as well as been a great experience to be placed in a work situation. The apprenticeship has also really helped me build confidence as you have to learn to speak to various personnel. It is hard work trying to study and work at the same time, but it all pays off in the end!
What are the most important skills you have learned?
Teamwork and communication. We are constantly communicating with the sites and with other colleagues and this is essential to ensure productivity, efficiency and generally a better office environment.
What does the future hold?
I want to spend the next year or two working in the commercial department as I really enjoy the work and all the people involved.
What do you feel is the best thing about working for Genesis Homes?
The people I work with are all lovely people, so I really enjoy coming to work to see them. I feel the company also respects you, especially with all the support they have given me throughout my apprenticeship.
What do you enjoy doing out of work?
My favourite thing to do is to socialise with friends, especially after lockdown, I don’t like staying in the house! I also support Man United, so I would usually be watching them most Saturdays!
What is your favourite food?
It’s a tough choice between lasagne and steak…. but at the moment, it has to be steak!
You’ve just received a distinction for your apprenticeship, what are you going to do to celebrate?
My family and I are going to go to Four and Twenty in Penrith for a lovely meal and then me and the lads are probably going to head to the local, the Shepherds Inn at Langwathby.