Engineer Stories

Stephen Hall

A drink of squash at work starts the day for apprentice coach maker Stephen Hall.

Up at 5.50am, he’s driving from his home in Carshalton to arrive at Croydon garage about 45 minutes later. That’s when he enjoys his first glass of squash of the day and a bite to eat – usually toast.

He’s all set by 7am for the working day ahead.

Stephen and mentor Barry Lindsay check to see what needs to be done and that can range from repairing or replacing bodywork, painting, filling, fabricating or assisting with FFDs.

If Barry’s busy elsewhere, another experienced engineer will be assigned to supervise Stephen.

It is the second of a three-year apprenticeship with Arriva London and there are also numerous jobs Stephen gets on with on his own and which are checked at the finish by Barry.

“I like the responsibility I’m given,” said Stephen, “and I enjoy doing a good job of work.”

Recently he has made a bulb holder for a cab light from sheet aluminium and a bracket to secure the bonnet of a bus.

"There weren’t any parts available for either of these jobs, so I just figured out the best way of fixing the problems,” said Stephen. “Engineering is about using your initiative and here at Arriva we are encouraged to do so. The experienced guys are always willing to help.”

Stephen’s first break is at 9am and it’s another glass of squash and sandwiches. He follows a similar diet on his lunch break and has a full meal at home in the evening.

Stephen attends City College at Swanswell in Coventry for about 12 weeks every year where he studies theory as well doing practical work to complement his garage training.

Following the completion of his coach making, Stephen will add a fourth year to his apprenticeship to achieve Arriva’s own Bus Mechanics qualification, which involves electrical and mechanical training.

When asked how does Stephen see's his future he said:

“Arriva is a good company and appears to give people the opportunity to get on. I’d certainly like to stay with the company for a while following my apprenticeship, but I would also like to work on smaller vehicles, like cars.

“I think the work would be different and I want to get as much experience as possible in all aspects of coach making.”

Back home, Stephen spends time on the internet, revising when necessary and then he goes out with pals or with his girlfriend.

Published: Wed 1 Apr 2009Modified: Wed 6 Jan 2010

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