Name: Tommy Crookson

Centre: Livingston

Years with OLCI: 3

What did you do prior to becoming a plumbing and gas tutor?

When I left school in 1978 I started working in the family plumbing business and continued working there up until about 4 years ago.

What practical tips do you have for a plumber or gas engineer working on-site?

My advice is when you finish a job, always stand back and ask yourself if you’d accept it in your own home.  I’d also recommend carrying and using your own dust sheets and vacuum cleaner because it can create a good impression with the customer. Read more »

Name: David Roughead

Centre: Newcastle

Years with OLCI: 2

What did you do prior to becoming an electrical tutor?

I’ve 43 years experience in the electrical/electronic engineering field. During that time, I spent 23 years working as a lecturer. Since 2000 I’ve had several jobs in industry; the last being as an electrical tester working on the new Royal Victoria Infirmary hospital extension in Newcastle upon Tyne.

What do you like most about being an electrical tutor?

Passing on my knowledge and seeing students progress from novice to experienced and giving them an opportunity to become qualified electricians. The personal reward comes from seeing a student that I’ve been training successfully set up their own business or get a job with a company. Read more »

Name: Gareth Roberts
Centre: Cardiff 
Years with OLCI: 31/2
 

What did you do prior to becoming an electrical tutor?
I worked as an Electrician for an eight year period in a range of industrial and domestic areas.

What do you like most about being an electrical tutor?
It might sound a bit corny but teaching people! It’s a great motivator for me as a tutor to see a student who starts their training with minimal previous knowledge, or is having a challenge with a particular part of their practical training, and helping them build up their skills and confidence until they can do it in their sleep.

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Name: Lary Edwards
Centre: Nottinghamshire
Years with OLCI: 1½

What did you do prior to becoming an electrical tutor?
After completing a six year apprenticeship that covered everything from a plug top to a power station, I became a qualified electrician, carrying out work on all types of electrical installations. I then progressed through to becoming an electrical manager.

What do you like most about being an electrical tutor?
Having the opportunity to pass on my experience to the students, and teaching them the proper way to install the various installations. I enjoy watching them progress through their various exams and practical workshops to achieve the level 2 and 3 qualifications. Read more »

Name: Lee Dow
Centre: London
Years with OLCI: 1½

1. What did you do prior to becoming a plumbing and gas tutor?
I went into a plumbing apprenticeship straight out of school – completing 5 years of hard labour!  However, in my early twenties I did go and live in Spain for 5 years developing my plumbing skills, running my own business and generally enjoying life to the full.  I came back around 7 years ago and almost immediately found my way into a further education college where I obtained my teaching certificate and assessor’s award. Read more »