In a bold move that redefines traditional educational paths, Matthew Rutherford, a talented apprentice carpenter from County Down, Northern Ireland, chose to embark on an apprenticeship rather than following the common route to university. This decision has not only shaped his career trajectory but has also led him to be recognized as the Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2024 champion, highlighting the significant value and potential of vocational training.

Rutherford's journey began amidst the pressure that many students face in the UK, where the path to higher education is often presented as the only option post-GCSEs, which are national assessments taken by students around the age of 16. After completing his GCSEs, the next logical step seemed to be A-Levels, a high-school qualification that typically paves the way to university. However, Rutherford felt a strong desire to pursue a hands-on career, contrary to the expectations of his educators and peers who believed he should continue his academic journey.

"I was definitely on a trajectory toward university, but I knew that wasn't really for me," he explained. Overcoming the initial hurdles of gaining his parents' support for his decision to pursue a trade apprenticeship, he found himself fully committed to this path once he completed his A-Levels.

Foundations of a Future

Rutherford's affinity for carpentry and construction can be traced back to his childhood, where he was heavily influenced by his father's passion for renovations and property maintenance. Together, they undertook various projects, including building garages and renovating their home, allowing Matthew to gain valuable hands-on experience and develop a genuine love for the built environment. He recalls, "When my dad and I built a garage in our back garden, I got to see from the ground up what happens and what's involved from the footings, to the block work, to the roof." This formative experience ignited his fascination with the construction process and solidified his choice of pursuing carpentry.

Rutherford believes that being a carpenter allows him to have a comprehensive view of construction projects. "A carpenter is there from the beginning they're the first one there, and they're the last one to go. They get to see the entire project," he stated, emphasizing the excitement and fulfillment he derives from witnessing a project come to life from start to finish.

The Apprenticeship Experience

As part of his three-year apprenticeship program, Rutherford attends college one day a week, studying a post-GCSE course in carpentry and joinery. This educational component provides him with crucial knowledge, particularly regarding health and safety regulations that are essential in the construction industry. The remaining four days of the week are dedicated to practical work with his employer, where his tasks vary from hanging doors to laying floors, or even cleaning up after job completions.

His proactive approach to learning has paid off; he actively engages with his mentors and asks numerous questions to deepen his understanding. "I've definitely seen a progression over the past year, which has been really encouraging," he noted, reflecting on his growth within the trade. His hard work and determination culminated in a significant achievement when he won a national apprenticeship award from Screwfix, which came with a prize valued at 10,000 (over $13,000) that included cash, tools, and training opportunities.

Financial Independence Without Student Debt

One of the most attractive aspects of an apprenticeship, according to Rutherford, is the ability to earn while learning, a contrast to many of his friends who are navigating the financial burdens of university student loans. He remarked, "I've got a number of friends in university, and they're taking out loans, working part-time jobs and they're going to end up with a debt pile after four years. I can start saving for things such as a mortgage now. It's like I have a four-year advantage, and I still end up with a high qualification."

A Call for Respecting Trade Professions

Rutherford is passionate about changing the perception surrounding vocational training. He expressed concern about the societal notion that trade work is a fallback option, suggesting that it needs to be viewed as a primary choice instead. "There's this idea that if everything goes downhill or if you can't get into further education, a trade is always there. It's almost put down as a second choice," he criticized. He believes that trades should be recognized for their value and the rewarding careers they can offer.

"You get higher-quality work when you attract people who are invested in what they're doing," he argued, pointing out that tradespeople are integral to the infrastructure of daily life, from the roads we drive on to the buildings we use. He encourages others to consider apprenticeships, stating, "I'd recommend doing an apprenticeship to anyone. You get to learn from people who have been working for years, and there's much to be said for learning on the job."