We sat down with Sam Turato of DW Refrigeration, who recently won Gold at the 2024 WorldSkills UK competition and was named Apprentice of the Year at Cardiff and Vale College. He shared his journey, experiences, and advice for anyone considering an apprenticeship.
Discovering A Passion For RACHP
Sam always had a keen interest in hands-on, technical work and enjoyed problem-solving. Though he didn’t always see himself in refrigeration and air conditioning, once he learned about how crucial these systems are, from supermarkets to cold storage facilities he knew he had found the right career.
Choosing Apprenticeships Over Other Career Pathways
Sam found his apprenticeship through a family connection, and it was the perfect fit for him. Unlike traditional university routes, his apprenticeship provided real-world experience, the opportunity to work with experienced engineers, and the ability to develop the practical skills that employers value most.
A Day In The Life Of An Apprentice
No two days are the same in the world of refrigeration and air conditioning. Sam’s daily tasks include:
- Inspecting and maintaining refrigeration systems
- Finding and fixing leaks, and carrying out pressure tests
- Diagnosing faults and conducting repairs
- Handling refrigerants safely and ensuring system efficiency
With each challenge comes an opportunity to learn and grow.
The Journey To Becoming An Award-Winning Apprentice
Starting as an apprentice, Sam built his skills step by step, gradually taking on more responsibility and gaining qualifications. Competing in WorldSkills UK was a pivotal moment in his journey, allowing him to push his abilities to new heights and ultimately secure a gold medal.
The most rewarding part? Seeing his hard work pay off and gaining recognition in his field.
The Importance Of Mentorship
Having a mentor made a significant difference in Sam’s development. Learning from Gareth, an experienced engineer, helped him refine his skills, boost his confidence, and prepare for high pressure competitions like WorldSkills UK.
What Everyone Should Know About RACHP Careers
Many people underestimate just how essential refrigeration and air conditioning are in daily life. From keeping food fresh to ensuring medical supplies remain safe, skilled engineers in this field play a critical role in society. Plus, with high demand for skilled professionals, it’s a career with strong job security and growth opportunities.
Competing At WorldSkills UK: A Defining Experience
Sam’s college encouraged him to enter WorldSkills UK after noticing his strong technical abilities. The competition required months of rigorous training, learning advanced techniques, and practicing under strict time constraints. Performing under pressure was one of the toughest challenges, but with intensive preparation and focus, he excelled.
The experience taught him the importance of precision, time management, and staying calm under stress. His standout moment? Winning gold and receiving direct praise from the judges for his high-quality work.
Confidence, Ambition, and the Future
Winning at WorldSkills UK has transformed Sam’s confidence and career ambitions. Now, he’s focused on continuing to refine his skills, take on bigger challenges, and possibly mentoring future apprentices.
Advice for Aspiring Apprentices
Looking back, Sam would tell his younger self:
- Be patient and trust the learning process
- Mistakes are opportunities to grow, learn from them
- Ask as many questions as possible
- Stay focused on long-term goals
Why Choose An Apprenticeship?
Sam’s journey highlights how apprenticeships provide a direct path to a rewarding career. Through hands-on experience, mentorship, and opportunities like WorldSkills UK, apprenticeships develop the next generation of skilled professionals.
If you’re considering an apprenticeship, take inspiration from Sam’s story. With dedication, training, and the right support, you too can achieve incredible success in your chosen field.