SAY HELLO TO HARRY O’CALLAGHAN

Please also join us in welcoming Harry to the team. Harry has recently joined Petrarch Panels as a Level 3 Data-Driven Professional Apprentice.

Welcome to the Petrarch Apprentice Team Harry! Thank you for taking the time to talk with me. First of all, can you explain what a Data Driven Professional Apprenticeship actually consists of?

“It encompasses so many things! If you think about it, data is everywhere and in an age where AI is advancing, being able to manage and handle data effectively is an enviable skill. This particular apprenticeship is an 15-month course aimed at teaching people like me, how to work confidently with data: from spotting patterns, creating clear reports, to sharing insights that help the business make better decisions, all while gaining hands-on experience.”

Why did you choose to study this apprenticeship?

“It’s so comprehensive and diverse, and that really appealed to me. It allows me to interact with all parts of the business, working with different teams and seeing how everything connects. A big part of my role is making sure samples go out in a professional fashion, and I enjoy being trusted with that responsibility. I’m also heavily involved in managing enquiries for the Downer Framing team too.

What stood out to me was the nature of the company itself. Its sustainable values are really important to me – as a company that creates its Petrarch panels from by-product crushed marble and stone. It feels like I’m part of something that isn’t just technically interesting but also environmentally responsible.”

That’s great to hear. So would you say that was the initial pull, aligning with a company whose values align with your own?

“Yes absolutely. When I saw the write-up on TIRO’s website the nature of Petrarch Panels really appealed to me.”

How are you finding the experience so far?

“I am really enjoying it. It’s busy, but I thrive on that! Every day feels different. One moment I might be analysing data, the next I’m working with a different team to ensure things run smoothly. I feel like I’m constantly learning, not just about data but about the business as a whole.”

Sounds like no two days are the same! What’s been the biggest challenge for you so far?

“Time management. Balancing coursework with day-to-day tasks can be tricky, especially when things get hectic. But I’m learning how to structure my week better and break tasks into manageable chunks. The support from my tutor, Adam (who is super supportive) and my colleagues, like Juan, who is an absolute legend, and Sandie, who is helping me to be more structured; has all made a big difference too.”

That’s a common challenge for apprentices, but it sounds like you’re finding ways to make it work. What skills do you feel you’ve developed most since starting?

“I’d say confidence in handling data and communicating across teams. I’ve gone from just observing to actively contributing. Having that exposure has helped me understand the bigger picture and improved the way I approach problem-solving.”

So it’s not just technical skills, but also collaboration and communication?

“Exactly.”

What are you enjoying most about the apprenticeship?

“The variety. No two days are the same, and that means it’s engaging. I like the sense of responsibility too. When samples go out looking professional, I feel proud to have played a part in that. And the fact that the work is tied to sustainability makes it more rewarding. I have also been learning things about Excel that I never knew possible.”

Where do you see yourself going next?

“I’d like to keep progressing. Level 3 is a solid foundation, but I’m already looking ahead to Level 4 and beyond. My long-term goal is to build both my technical skills and business knowledge so I can contribute even more to the company.”

That’s great to hear Harry. And finally, what about outside of work, what do you like to do?

I’m really into computer science and enjoy creating games and coding. I guess there is a clear link there with data appreciation and hopefully I’d like to continue experimenting and developing those talents outside of work.

AS WELL AS TAKING THE TIME TO WELCOME OUR NEW APPRENTICES, WE ALSO CAUGHT UP WITH JAMIE LAU

As part of our Apprentice Series, we caught up once again with Jamie Lau. If you’ve been following Petrarch Panels news you will know that Jamie is now a fully-fledged Lab Technician and is about to embark in earnest on Level 6, a programme that incorporates Levels 4, 5 & 6 (equivalent to a BSc (Hons).

Say hello (again) to Jamie Lau.
With two new apprentices joining the company, we’re quickly becoming something of a beacon for TIRO. Having recently introduced Emma and Harry, it seemed only right to share a progress update from you too Jamie!

How is everything going?
“It’s very busy! At the moment, there are so many samples coming into the lab that I’m relieved my studies don’t officially kick off until next week.”

That’s good timing then. Although your online coursework begins imminently, have you had the chance to speak with your new tutor? How are you finding this year’s approach?

“Yes, I have. My personal tutor this year is Will, and he’s already been invaluable in showing me how to structure my offline learning. He’s just as supportive as Aaron was.”

What do you mean by offline learning?

“As well as learning on the job as a lab technician, I also have to complete 1,000 hours of offline study, learning that isn’t part of my day-to-day lab experience. That includes webinars and, hopefully, attending Surface Shows when time allows.”

What’s the biggest challenge you’re facing right now in terms of achieving your learning objectives?

“As always, it’s structuring my time. When the lab is as busy as it is currently, with so many samples, it’s hard to justify stepping away for structured learning. But I know I’ll have to at some point.”

Has Emma’s arrival as an Apprentice Lab Technician helped ease that pressure?

“Yes, absolutely. She’s already made a huge difference to the workload. I’ve been training her on how to prepare samples, colour-match to specific examples, and get them ready to send to customers. We’ve recently refined this process as part of our ISO Certification, introducing an additional quality control phase ensures the Petrarch panel samples we send out are always on-point.”

Are there any new lab developments you can share, or is it all top secret?

“We’ve been enhancing our colour-matching process for customers. It’s always easier when we have a physical sample to work against, but that’s not always possible!”

What are you enjoying most at the moment?

“I’d say the colour work. It’s challenging but so rewarding when you nail the exact tone a client is after. And having another apprentice alongside me has really improved my day-to-day work experience.”

I hear the Petrarch Panels lab has also had some investment in new equipment?

“That’s right! We’ve added a couple of new pieces of kit: a Tilias Olson tensometer, which tests tensile strength. It’s an impressive bit of equipment. The brand has been around since the 1880’s and is apparently the gold standard in material testing. We’ve also got a new sieve shaker. It’s fantastic to see investment going back into the lab.”

And in terms of your long-term goals – you’re still as focused as ever on pushing your studies as far as they can go?

“For sure. Ultimately, I’d like to complete a Master’s in Material Science and continue developing with Petrarch. The support I’ve had from the team, from Trevor, our consultant chemist, Dave in lab support, and Patrick, our Operations Director, has all been amazing. It’s such an encouraging and motivating environment. And now, with Emma on-board to share the workload, everything feels that much more achievable.”

We also had the opportunity to catch up with Patrick Golding, our Operations Director, who had this to say about Jamie’s progress: 

“Jamie continues to impress with both his positive, pro-active approach to his work and interactions with colleagues and in terms of the outcomes he achieves. It’s been a pleasure to see Jamie interact with Emma our new TIRO Level 3 Apprentice and step easily into a mentorship role, supporting her in her learning and passing on his knowledge. It is my expectation that as Jamie continues to grow in his knowledge and experience, he will also grow in his importance to the business and the future development of our product; I look forward to continuing working with him on helping achieve his professional goals to the benefit of both him personally and to Petrarch as a leading provider of architectural panels.”