An IT Support Engineer at Derby-based Syntax IT Services has won a national award in recognition of his commitment to the apprenticeship programme.
Eric Riley (19) from Spondon completed his IT Technician apprenticeship with the Remit IT Academy – working at Syntax IT Services in Pride Park where he has now secured a full time job.
Eric was a pupil at West Park Community School in Spondon and then went onto Bilborough College in Nottingham to study A levels before applying for the apprenticeship through national apprenticeship academy Remit who operate throughout the South, London, North West and the Midlands.
Eric said: “After taking my A levels, I decided that an apprenticeship would be a better route to gain professional qualifications and a career in IT rather than going to university. It has been hard work – completing all the Microsoft training and exams in just one year alongside work but has definitely been the best of both worlds as I have been able to gain practical work experience alongside learning the theory.”
“I am now working full time at Syntax largely on the IT support desk – helping customers remotely with a wide and variety of IT issues. The great thing about Syntax is that they are willing to develop my skills and I am currently working towards moving more into the software development team within the business.”
Syntax IT Services Technical Director David White, who, alongside the Remit IT Academy tutors, nominated Eric for the award, said: “Apprenticeships are good for business as they enable employers to develop a young member of staff with the raw talent and enthusiasm to learn how to do things right. Eric has always been a hard working and highly motivated young man and, through the apprenticeship, has grown in confidence. He has proved his worth during his apprenticeship and we were keen to employ him on a full time contract when he completed his qualifications.”
“We are obviously delighted that his dedication has been recognised through this prestigious award.”
Eric will officially receive his award at a Remit IT Academy ceremony at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Nottingham on Thursday December 20. As part of his award – Eric will be joining other former IT apprentices on a special trip to Kilimanjaro which has been planned for next year.