Park People: George Soanes, LTi Metaltech
Published on 17 July 2024
In this month’s Park People, the Milton Park team interviews Oxfordshire Apprenticeship Awards Rising Star winner, George Soanes, LTi Metaltech’s enthusiastic Apprentice Laboratory Technician. Discover what sets George apart and fuels his ambition to follow in his family’s footsteps.
Hi George! Can you tell us a bit about LTi Metaltech?
LTi Metaltech specialises in precision fabrication and welding, catering to industries like healthcare, renewable energy and nuclear fusion. We’re known for our expertise in producing medium-to-high volumes of cryogenic pressure vessels using cutting-edge robotic and semi-automated processes. It’s exciting stuff!
With over 40 years of experience pushing boundaries in innovation, we pride ourselves on delivering top-quality products.
What does your role as an Apprentice Laboratory Technician involve?
I’m part of the team at Metaltest, a UKAS-accredited lab that meticulously tests metals and weldments to ensure we uphold the highest standards. Day-to-day, my role includes crafting test samples, conducting tests and collaborating closely with our clients to ensure we meet their specifications.
Every day brings new opportunities to learn and grow, from mastering new machining techniques to diving deep into complex testing protocols.
What inspired you to pursue an apprenticeship at LTi Metaltech?
I’ve always been drawn to engineering roles, it runs in the family, with both my dad and grandad being great engineers previously. Learning how things work and solving problems has always interested me, so pursuing a career where I could apply my practical skills felt like a natural fit.
After studying an advanced engineering diploma, I sought an apprenticeship opportunity to get hands-on experience. The sense of responsibility offered by the role with Metaltest particularly enticed me. It’s challenging, but that’s what makes the job rewarding.
Congratulations on winning OBN’s Rising Star Award! What do you think set you apart?
Thank you! I think the opportunities I had to take on responsibility from the start enabled me to learn quickly. Working closely in a small team has accelerated my learning and shaped my approach to problem-solving and teamwork.
I feel extremely grateful to receive this prestigious award and thankful to the two colleagues that nominated me, although I have no idea what they wrote!
What’s next for you?
LTi offers a fantastic learning environment, equipped with state-of-the-art resources and progressive technology.
The company has invested in my learning, so I’d like to give back by adding value with my insights and experience in the future. There are more opportunities for further training and development, so my goal is to work my way up and explore a path in engineering here.
Would you recommend an apprenticeship to someone considering a career in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)?
Definitely! Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to dive straight into the industry and gain invaluable experience while you learn. Working in a STEM role is not always easy, the learning curve is steep, but it’s all worth it. If you’re eager to work hard and make a difference from day one, I couldn’t recommend it enough.
What do you enjoy most about being located at Milton Park?
There’s an incredible atmosphere at Milton Park. It’s inspiring to be surrounded by so many innovative companies and intelligent minds. The location also provides access to a skilled workforce and enables us to collaborate with other high-tech companies within the community.
The amenities are great, too. Having a Post Office nearby is very convenient for dropping off parcels and you’ll regularly spot me at the Milton Feast, it’s just too good!
