Global leader in testing, inspection and certification (TIC) services, SOCOTEC UK & Ireland, has announced it has invested approximately £2m in apprenticeships over the past five years – helping over 450 employees on programmes in the process
A record-breaking 2025 saw 130 new apprentices start their learning journeys, the highest number in a single year so far.
Lisa Massey, HR director at SOCOTEC UK & Ireland, said of the news: “We’re incredibly proud of how our learning and development opportunities have enhanced the careers of so many colleagues.
“Some of our people have been working on their courses for up to five years, showing real tenacity and determination to get to the end of their learning journeys. We currently have over 200 active apprentices, with over 120 managers supporting them.
“This investment isn’t just about numbers – it’s about creating genuine career pathways and recognising the exceptional talent we have throughout the business, from early careers apprentices to upskilling employees at every stage of their career.”
There’s a course for everyone
The company’s apprenticeship programmes span 50 different courses delivered through 26 apprenticeship providers, catering to both early career professionals and those seeking career changes or skills enhancement at any stage of their professional journey.
This commitment to development is exemplified through the career trajectories of SOCOTEC staff, like Lee Dando and Nathan Finnan.
Lee joined SOCOTEC in 2017 as a Rig Co-ordinator, bringing 35 years of industry experience to the business. Through SOCOTEC’s structured development programmes and mentorship support, Lee progressed through business improvement manager roles to become field operations director in early 2025, across just eight years.
“I’m 53 now and have been in the industry since I was 17 years old. It’s taken me a while to become a director, but it’s only taken me eight years to become a director at SOCOTEC.
“However, you don’t just become a director, that’s where SOCOTEC stepped in and trained me to be ready for this challenge. To become a director in just eight years illustrates SOCOTEC’s commitment to recognising and developing talent. The business saw my potential and essentially said to me, ‘If you want to grow, we will support you’ – that is a testament to the business, not just me.”
Lee now oversees several of SOCOTEC’s key areas of work including the Field Services Team, made up of the drilling division, bio-remediation and plant, plus depot operations and logistics.
Nathan’s story reflects SOCOTEC’s inclusive approach to development, demonstrating that career growth opportunities are available at any stage. With extensive experience in groundworks, site supervision, and project coordination, Nathan decided to pursue his further professional development with SOCOTEC’s support.
Nathan said: “I lost my grandfather recently, and it really made me think about what I want to achieve in my career.
“You could say I should have done it when I was younger, but I’m doing it now, and that’s what matters. Better late than never, as they say. One thing I’ve learned is that you’re never too old to develop new skills or take on new challenges.”
Now, Nathan is heading towards a senior project manager role, and his advice to others resonates with SOCOTEC’s philosophy: “Don’t wait for the perfect moment to pursue your goals. Life has a way of reminding you that time is precious. If you want to develop your career, start now. Learn new skills, build relationships, and don’t be afraid to take on challenges. You’ll surprise yourself with what you can achieve.”
The apprenticeship investment is part of SOCOTEC’s commitment to skill development
SOCOTEC’s achievements in learning and development have been externally recognised through a Gold rating in The 5% Club, which acknowledges employers with 5% or more of their workforce on programmes of accredited learning, and a Great Place to Work Rating in 2025.
Last year, SOCOTEC was also recognised in The Sunday Times’ prestigious Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers list.
The company recently celebrated its third annual Earn and Learn graduation ceremony at the Pirelli Stadium in Burton-upon-Trent, where 85 employees who successfully completed various learning and development courses were recognised. The event also marked the global launch of SOCOTEC’s Blue Academy, a learning and development initiative designed to revolutionise and expand growth opportunities available to all staff.
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