National Apprenticeship Week 2025 – Meet Billy George Hopson
Billy George Hopson started his apprenticeship with VolkerStevin in 2018, working in the VolkerMarine Services yard as a Groundworker Apprentice. His apprenticeship provided him the opportunity to learn new skills and gain qualifications to advance his career. Since completing his apprenticeship Billy has earned several promotions and became the youngest Site Foreman in VolkerStevin’s history. Billy is currently working on our Kendal Flood Risk Management Scheme. We spoke with him to find out how his apprenticeship shaped his career and helped him reach this milestone.
What skills did you learn during your apprenticeship?
“As an apprentice I spent much of my time working with the steel fixers in the yard, learning how to construct steel bases from drawings. I also learnt many other skills, such as basic concreating, as I helped my team pour precast units.
“Alongside the technical skills I learnt, I was also taught the fundamentals of working in construction, the biggest one being how to look out for the safety of myself and others.”
What qualifications did you gain during your apprenticeship?
“During my apprenticeship I undertook several courses and qualifications, including the Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS). During this course I learnt about my duties and responsibilities to maintain a health and safety culture on site, this course was key to keeping myself and others safe. I also completed a manual handling and abrasive wheels course.”
What are the benefits of completing an apprenticeship?
“An apprenticeship allows you to earn a wage whilst learning new skills and gaining qualifications, you are also surrounded by people who will go out of their way to help you succeed.
“Throughout my time with VolkerStevin I have been mentored by a very experienced and knowledgeable Senior Works Manager. Having the support and guidance of my mentor has allowed me to thrive, and many of the skills I use daily, I learnt from him.”
What have you achieved since completing your apprenticeship?
“Since completing my apprenticeship, I have gone to work on larger jobs with VolkerStevin where my role became that of a Site Supervisor and now a Site Foreman.
“I am currently in the process of enrolling on a supervisor training course, which will support me in managing others, and is the next step in my career. Even now, after finishing my apprenticeship, I am still learning and developing new skills!”
