Why Apprenticeships Are Transforming Tech Careers

In this episode of Workplus, host Richard Kirk speaks with twin sisters Olivia and Louisa, software engineering apprentices at Teamworks. From their early passion for tech to building products used by elite sports teams, they share an honest and inspiring story of growth, challenge, and the power of real-world experience. This episode breaks down how apprenticeships are opening new doors into tech, how support and curiosity go hand in hand, and why young people don’t have to choose between learning and working.

A must-listen for parents, teachers, and anyone curious about the future of careers in Northern Ireland.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Apprenticeships provide a valid, valuable alternative to university
• Supportive environments help young people build confidence from day one
• Learning on the job reinforces academic studies
• Collaboration and teamwork are key to growth in tech roles
• Real-world projects create tangible impact and satisfaction
• Tech careers are increasingly accessible to women
• Mentorship from peers strengthens understanding
• Flexibility in remote and hybrid work boosts productivity
• Early exposure to problem-solving builds long-term resilience
• AI is viewed as a helpful tool, not a replacement

BEST MOMENTS

00:00:05. “You're not supposed to know everything. You're meant to go in with a mindset that you're excited to learn.”
00:01:43. “We were able to get involved in a competition… and the result was us being taken to Silicon Valley.”
00:03:06. “Our physics teacher in particular recommended Workplus to help us get started.”
00:04:20. “Every day is different. So you go in and there's a new problem to solve.”
00:06:07. “From the beginning, it's been encouraged that you're not supposed to know everything.”
00:10:40. “We are given the time to do that. It's not all… there isn't a pressure on deadlines as such.”
00:12:13. “From day one, you do feel valued and that your opinions are respected.”
00:13:13. “We offer lots of different products to elite sports teams.”
00:19:26. “Our two last two hiring of apprentices have been fully female.”
00:30:31. “Just continue to work hard and do what you're doing and it will work out.”

🎧 Thanks for listening to Workplus, the podcast that brings real jobs into the light.

🔗 Find more stories, tools, and guides to help young people and returners explore meaningful careers at workplus.app

📩 Know someone who would find this helpful? Share it with a parent, teacher, or future changemaker.

🎙 New episodes every Thursday at 8am. Follow so you never miss a story.

This podcast has been brought to you by APodcastGeek. https://www.apodcastgeek.com