Equipped for a bright future: The Sunbelt Rentals Apprenticeship experience

An apprenticeship can be a perfect gateway into businesses to gain skills and real-world experience while earning. Being one of our apprentices means being supported to take on real responsibility while making a real impact.

We caught up with some of our apprentices, new and former, about their experience of undertaking one of our apprenticeships.

What makes our apprenticeship programme unique?

Not all of our apprentices joined the business straight from school, some, like Michael Kinnane, jumped into a new industry. After spending 12 years as a butcher, Michael was looking for a role that offered more fulfilment and career progression. In 2022, he joined the team as a Level 2 Construction Plant Maintenance Engineer apprentice, where he gained a range of skills, from welding and hydraulics to first aid and forklift training.

“Thanks to the opportunities Sunbelt Rentals gives you, I’ve also developed a wealth of knowledge outside of my role like health and safety courses, first aid, and forklift training.”

The support to succeed

For Max Lambert, a Business Administration apprentice, the decision to join the company instead of going to university was an easy one. “I was looking for real-world experience, and that’s exactly what my apprenticeship provides me with.”

Max has also benefited from our commitment to personal development, attending training courses and gaining first-hand insights into business operations. He states, “Getting a front-row view of how the business operates has been invaluable providing insights and an understanding that I wouldn’t ordinarily have got.”

A lasting career

Lauren Jobson’s journey is testimony of the power of apprenticeships in building confidence and practical skills. Initially set on becoming an equine vet, she soon realised that path wasn’t for her. Instead, she took on an apprenticeship as a Hire Desk Controller.

“At first, the idea of speaking to a customer made me incredibly nervous, but now it’s second nature. I’ve learned how to give customers the best service possible and how to stay calm and composed, even when things are busy or complicated.

“I was encouraged to explore different areas of the business, going out with the drivers and spending time in the workshop to understand how everything worked. This holistic view of the company gave me a much deeper understanding of how my role fits into the broader team, and how all the moving parts contribute to the company’s success.” she says.

Unlocking people’s potential

What makes our apprenticeship programme stand out is our commitment to continuous learning and support from teammates. Apprentices like Nauman Shahid and Luke Rutherford highlight the strong support network within the company. “I never have to worry because there’s always someone available to help” Nauman says. Luke echoes this sentiment: “The variety of learning opportunities keeps me engaged. No two days are the same!”

Joe Ellis, a former Royal Navy engineer, appreciates the clear progression path that Sunbelt offers. “From the moment I joined, I’ve had guidance from forepersons, managers, and colleagues. Their help has been invaluable in working towards my Level 3 qualification. My goal is to gain as many skills as possible and work my way up to a management role—ideally as a foreperson or depot manager. I’d even love the opportunity to work abroad in the future.” he says.

Meanwhile, Jack Jones’ story is a reminder that apprenticeships can offer a second chance. After two years at university, he realised it wasn’t the right fit. “I knew an apprenticeship was the right move, and I haven’t looked back since. The support at Sunbelt is fantastic, and I’d tell anyone considering it—go for it!”

We offer a range of different apprenticeship pathways from level 2 to 6, including engineering, skilled trade and professional skills.

For those considering an apprenticeship, check out our current vacancies.