Success Story: Flynn’s Journey from Classroom to CAD Technician

Flynn, aged 20 and from Bishop Auckland, first discovered his passion for Computer Aided Design (CAD) while studying at St. John’s School & Sixth Form College.

Flynn, aged 20 and from Bishop Auckland, first discovered his passion for Computer Aided Design (CAD) while studying at St. John’s School & Sixth Form College.

Inspired by the possibilities of engineering design, he set his sights on pursuing a career that would allow him to develop these skills further.

After completing his GCSEs, Flynn enrolled at South West Durham Training (SWDT), an Engineering and Plumbing Training Centre based on Aycliffe Business Park in Newton Aycliffe.

He embarked on a full-time Level 2 course in Manufacturing, where he gained hands-on experience across a range of engineering disciplines including Metal Fabrication & Welding, Machining, and CAD.

The course allowed Flynn to explore his growing interest in CAD in more depth, confirming that this was the path he wanted to follow.

Upon completing the programme, Flynn was offered an interview at Sheers Engineering in Darlington; an opportunity made possible through SWDT’s strong industry links.

After a successful interview, he secured an Advanced Apprenticeship (Level 3) as a CAD Technician, enabling him to begin a career perfectly suited to his interests.

“South West Durham Training opened up the apprenticeship opportunity through links it had within the company, and I’m grateful for the support I’ve received from the team at SWDT,” Flynn shared.

Halfway through his apprenticeship, Flynn experienced a significant change when Sheers Engineering merged with Ross Shire Engineering (RSE).

Although the transition was challenging at first, it helped him build resilience and adapt confidently to change; skills that will serve him throughout his engineering career.

Reflecting on his journey so far, Flynn said, “The apprenticeship as a whole has run very smoothly and been pretty amazing. I was given the time and support I needed to succeed. My company was really supportive too, giving me the time to work on my studies.”

Keith Shepherd, Lecturer at SWDT, praised Flynn’s dedication and progress throughout his training: “Flynn was a model apprentice. He has developed his ability and matured throughout the process. His commitment to his studies and to his employer has been exemplary.”

Throughout his apprenticeship, Flynn has grown both personally and professionally.

“My communication skills have definitely improved. I’m a lot more confident than the shy person I was when I first started at SWDT.

I’ve been able to gain technical skills, and I’m much more willing to give things a go now than I was before,” he said.

Flynn is now working toward his Higher National Certificate and is eager to continue progressing within RSE.

In September 2026, he will enrol onto the RSE Graduate Programme, giving him broader insight into the business.

While his current role has a mechanical focus, the programme will expose him to other disciplines such as Electrical Engineering, helping him develop into a multi-skilled engineer.

Inspired by his father, who is also an engineer, Flynn always knew he wanted to follow a similar path; although he never imagined he would become an office-based engineer.

His journey so far has shown him the range of opportunities within the industry, and he is excited to continue building his future in engineering.