From workshop welder to WorldSkills electrical finalist: Will Boyer’s apprenticeship journey with City & Guilds

Supporting the growth of a rising electrical talent through industry‑recognised City & Guilds training

26 February 2026

From welding to wiring complex electrical systems, Will Boyer’s career path has taken a remarkable turn. Now an electrical apprentice at Blackburn College, Will’s growing expertise has propelled him far beyond the classroom.

Encouraged by his tutor, Kev, to enter SkillELECTRIC, he rose through a field of hundreds, winning his heat at Coleg Menai and securing his place as a WorldSkills UK national finalist.

Will spends one day a week at Blackburn College and the rest learning on the job with Paul Wilson Electrical & Renewable Energy Solutions Ltd. His journey demonstrates how dedicated tutors, supportive employers, and the right qualifications can work together to create confident, industry-ready electricians – and how an apprentice's own determination and strong work-ethic can turn opportunity into national recognition.

Starting the journey

Will didn’t jump straight into an apprenticeship from school. He first worked as a welder and discovered electrical work when his now‑employer came into the workshop. Soon after testing his hand at electrical work, he began his apprenticeship with Paul Wilson Electrical & Renewable Energy Solutions Ltd.

Initially, Will didn’t know what to expect but quickly found that a hands-on apprenticeship suited him far better than classroom‑only study.

The role of City & Guilds qualifications

Throughout his apprenticeship, Will has progressed through the core electrotechnical qualification and is now finalising his portfolio, aiming for end‑point assessment (EPA) this year.

City & Guilds credentials carry weight on site. As Will explains, “because it’s so widely known people think he must be good because he’s done City & Guilds.” Will also points to how the City & Guilds brand supports career progression noting that “it looks more professional” when appearing on cards and credentials.

Technical and soft skills learned along the way

Technical skills

As part of his programme at Blackburn College, Will studies all the core electrical competencies needed for industry. Among these, he highlights inspection and testing as one of the more complex areas at first, but gaining a deeper understanding of the principles behind each step has helped him turn what once felt challenging into a precise and well‑informed part of his skillset.

On site, Will has been steadily building expertise in solar PV installations, particularly in‑roof systems. With the growing demand for green skills and renewable technologies, this experience has given him valuable exposure to an expanding area of the electrical sector.

He also notes that the practical challenges within the SkillELECTRIC competition closely mirror elements of the AM2 assessment, strengthening both his technical precision and theoretical understanding.

Soft skills

Beyond the tools and technical training, Will’s apprenticeship has strengthened the skills he uses to manage daily working life. He now helps plan jobs, delegates tasks to teammates and communicates directly with customers. He’s become more proactive with time management by tackling portfolio tasks early, maintaining consistent communication with tutors to check his progress, and has taken on leadership responsibilities, including running a full solar installation with three operatives while his employer managed another site.

The support powering Will’s progress

Will’s progression has been shaped most strongly by the teaching and guidance he receives at Blackburn College, where his tutor Kev has been a constant source of clarity and encouragement.

Kev’s ability to break down complex concepts, like testing and inspection, and explain not just the how but the why has transformed Will’s confidence, helping him make clear links between the classroom and real‑world electrical work.

In the workplace, Will is supported by his employer Paul Wilson, who reinforces his learning with hands‑on demonstrations and practical problem‑solving on site. Paul also helps Will gather drawings, evidence and portfolio materials, making sure he’s equipped to progress both academically and professionally.

Their combined guidance has helped Will grow into a passionate advocate for apprenticeships in the electrical sector.

From apprentice to industry contributor

Will is close to completion, aiming to finish his portfolio and sit his EPA this year. On site, he’s already stepping up, recently running his own solar job to schedule and ensuring customer satisfaction. He’s also preparing for advanced training in solar PV and battery storage offered to WorldSkills final competitors by an industry sponsor.

His journey through the SkillELECTRIC competitions, fuelled by his hard work, dedication and countless hours of practice, has not only boosted his technical skills but highlighted his potential as a role model for others entering the trade.

And he’s already thinking about how we can contribute back into the industry. Will has recently joined the City & Guilds learner panel, contributing insights that will help shape the experience of future apprentices. And looking ahead, Will’s goal is to become fully qualified and mentor his own apprentice one day, passing on the same opportunities he’s benefited from.

Why apprenticeships work

From Will’s perspective, apprenticeships offer a powerful mix of benefits that go far beyond traditional study. They combine hands‑on experience, professional development, and structured learning in a way that sets apprentices up for long-term success. For him, that looks like:

• Earn while you learn: Get paid for productive work while building skills.
• Real-world problem-solving: Face challenges no classroom can simulate.
• Career exposure & perks: Trade days, industry contacts, and starter tool support.
• Confidence under pressure: Competitions and site deadlines sharpen focus ahead of AM2/EPA.

His advice for those considering an apprenticeship: “Do it, and don’t leave assignments to the last minute. Get them done early so you can focus on learning and work.”

About City & Guilds electrical programmes

City & Guilds offers industry‑recognised electrical programmes that equip learners with the skills and confidence employers value. Developed with experts and aligned to industry standards, our electrotechnical programmes support learners from entry-level to advanced specialisms. Whether you're starting out, upskilling, or supporting apprentices in the workplace, City & Guilds provides the pathways that help shape confident, capable electricians for the future.