Investing in the Future: ITWORX UK’s Commitment to Apprenticeships and Talent Development

At ITWORX UK, nurturing talent isn’t just a strategic objective – it’s a core part of our company’s identity. As an employee-owned IT and communications partner based in Aberdeen, we believe in building a future where people thrive through continuous learning and meaningful career opportunities.

Over the past six years, we’ve made a sustained commitment to developing our team through the QA Apprenticeship Programme. To date, seven members of the ITWORX UK team have either completed or are currently undertaking apprenticeships. Among them, two have progressed from Technicians to Engineers – playing crucial roles in delivering projects across Scotland and contributing directly to our success.

“Apprenticeships are a key part of our strategy for developing talent and growing our team from within,” says Stuart Bowlerwell, Technical Director at ITWORX UK. “They offer a flexible, structured path for career development – something that aligns with our values as an employee-owned business.”

With a 100% success rate in helping apprentices achieve their qualifications, our results speak for themselves. In September 2024, we welcomed two new apprentices: Brandon Reid, who joined as a Services Technician and is working toward the SCQF 8 Diploma in Digital Technology, and Luca Hendry, now a Sales Coordinator, studying for the SCQF 6 Diploma in Digital Applications Support. Ian Smith, Solutions Analyst at ITWORX UK, has also recently completed his SCQF 8 in Cyber Security.

These additions further demonstrate our commitment to building the next generation of IT professionals – across both technical and commercial roles.

At ITWORX UK, apprenticeships are more than just entry-level roles – they are the first step on a long-term career journey, supported by a culture of mentorship, training, and continuous learning.

“We believe a single approach to training doesn’t fit everyone,” Stuart explains. “Apprenticeships allow us to offer alternative learning pathways that are grounded in practical experience, while also being aligned to recognised qualifications.”

This philosophy has proven particularly effective in developing well-rounded professionals who bring both theoretical knowledge and hands-on expertise to their roles.

Take Niall Simpson, for example. Now a Network Engineer at ITWORX UK, Niall began his journey as an apprentice during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Joining ITWORX halfway through my apprenticeship during Covid was difficult, but I’ve been able to progress in my career and achieve further certifications, including the Cisco CCNA,” Niall says. “The QA course provided foundational knowledge on a wide range of issues that I now deal with daily. It helped me apply theory in real-world settings.”

Apprenticeships Aligned with Core Values

Our approach to apprenticeships is deeply rooted in the ITWORX UK core values: People, Partnership, and Service.

• People: As an employee-owned business, our people are at the heart of everything we do. Apprenticeships provide meaningful opportunities for individuals to grow professionally and personally within the company.
• Partnership: Our long-standing collaboration with QA Apprenticeships ensures each apprentice receives high-quality training and on-the-job support – fostering long-term success.
• Service: We are committed to delivering exceptional service – not only to our clients but also to our employees. Structured mentorship and professional development are essential to maintaining this standard of excellence.

By continuing to invest in apprenticeships, ITWORX UK is not only preparing the next generation of IT professionals but also reinforcing our position as a forward-thinking, people-focused business that understands the value of long-term development.

“Apprenticeships help bridge the skills gap in the IT industry,” Stuart notes. “They enable people to grow while remaining in the workforce, keeping their knowledge current and their experience relevant.”

“We’re proud of the progress our apprentices have made – and even prouder of the careers they’re building here with us,” he concludes. “It’s a win for the individual, for our business, and for the broader IT community.”