Our third apprenticeship of the week is Jessica Hughes, CI/Project Lead, who has recently been nominated for the Gatwick Diamond Business Awards 2025, and we are proud to announce she is a finalist! Congratulations Jessica!

Here is what she has to say about her apprenticeship:

Name: Jessica Hughes

Age: 18-24

Job Title: CI/Project Lead

1. What apprenticeship are you currently completing/have completed? How long is this course?

BA Hons Chartered Management (Integrated CMI) – 4 years 2020-2025

2. What made you choose an apprenticeship?

Doing an apprenticeship provides many opportunities. As a hands-on learner, I thrive when I can fully understand the context and operations of an organisation, allowing me to evaluate the best approach for any given situation. Throughout my apprenticeship, I have had the privilege of working alongside students from various businesses such as Rolls-Royce and the local County Council. This exposure has provided valuable insights into how different businesses operate, the challenges they face and the solutions they implement. By gaining these diverse perspectives, I have been able to bring fresh ideas and improvements to Welland.

While there are financial benefits to an apprenticeship, such as avoiding university debt, the true value is the experience I have gained. An apprenticeship is a journey of continuous learning and growth, and Welland Medical has provided me with the opportunity to enhance not only my academic and business knowledge but also my personal development.

3. What key skills and experience have you gained from completing your apprenticeship whilst working at Welland?

My apprenticeship programme covers key business processes, ranging from supply chain management, strategic HR, and global branding. While learning theoretical concepts and applying them to Welland, often showed that real-world challenges require adaptability beyond theory.

Working across departments has strengthened my collaboration skills, helping me understand different needs and align efforts towards a shared business goal. This has been crucial in driving projects and continuous improvement by applying academic knowledge to overcome barriers.

I have also developed essential problem-solving and time management skills, which realising early on in my apprenticeship journey is crucial for success. Lastly, I learnt to work with a range of people from different backgrounds showing how our diversity provides strength in creating innovative solutions.

4. What advice would you give to your colleagues if they are interested in completing an apprenticeship?

Doing an apprenticeship is not for the faint-hearted. If you are passionate about personal development and career growth, you must be willing to put in the effort. An apprenticeship is ideal for individuals who are driven, motivated and eager to not only improve themselves but also contribute positively to their working environment.

My top tip for being a successful apprentice is to stay curious. Get involved, ask questions and challenge the way things are done. Understanding the “why” behind processes will deepen your knowledge and may even lead to opportunities for innovation and improvement.

5. Would you like to share anything else about your experience of your apprenticeship?

Welland providing me with the opportunity to join an apprenticeship programme is something I am truly grateful for. The company’s investment in me, along with the support from all departments at Welland Medical, has been instrumental in my academic and workplace growth. This support has enabled me to continuously develop and achieve new milestones in my career.

As I approach my final dissertation for the apprenticeship programme, I reflect on the journey and acknowledge that it hasn’t been easy. There have been moments of struggle and even tears but being surrounded by people who believe in my abilities has kept me motivated, wanting to give my best.

One of the most valuable life lessons I have learned throughout this experience and one that will stay with me throughout my career, is that the effort you put in, is what you get out. Challenges are inevitable but how you navigate them and push forward ultimately determines your success and rewards.

If you would like to find out more about any open apprenticeships we have, please contact recruitment@wellandmedical.com.