Welcoming the next generation on work experience

There’s something really special about a company that feels like a family – and this week, we’ve been proving it – quite literally. 

We’re excited to have hosted Max from Richard Rose Morton Academy for a week of hands-on experience here in Carlisle. He’s been out on the road with one of our local Install Engineers, getting stuck in and learning how to bring lightning-fast connectivity to homes and businesses – one install at a time. From cables to customer comms, he’s been right at the heart of the action.  

Max, who was keen to learn more about what the world of work is like, has thoroughly enjoyed his week, covering the North East and Cumbria, and it has given him a real insight of what goes into building a broadband network and where a career in the industry could take him. 

Don’t just take our word for it. Hear it from Max himself: 

I’ve loved every minute of it – being out on the job, learning how everything connects, and seeing how much work goes into it all. It’s definetly made me think about doing something like this as a career, maybe even an apprenticeship after I finish school next year!

Mark Kelly, our Head of Engineering has welcomes Max’s enthusiasm:

We’re delighted to welcome Max to Grain for his work experience week. This has been a fantastic opportunity for him to gain first-hand insight into our Full Fibre broadband installations and to experience our commitment to delivering exceptional products and service to customers. Max has approached the week with genuine enthusiasm, a strong work ethic, and a real eagerness to learn.

At Grain, we’re passionate about developing people. Giving young individuals like Max the opportunity to explore our industry is a powerful way to inspire the next generation of engineers.

By nurturing talent early and showcasing what a progressive, forward-thinking business looks like, we help ensure that the right people – with the right attitude – are encouraged to be part of our future.

And it’s a placement that comes with a personal connection. 

Max’s mum, Iwona, recently celebrated an incredible 10 years with Grain and before that Solway Communications (Grain’s founding company).  

Over the years, Iwona has taken on a range of finance-based roles – each one helping to shape the business we are today. She’s now our Billing & Service Manager, leading a team that makes sure customers are looked after and bills are bang on. 

So, as she marks her 10-year milestone, it feels fitting that we’re also helping to inspire the next generation of talent in her own family.  

Welcome aboard – and happy work anniversary, Iwona!