from the beginning I felt most welcome, which has enabled me to become an effective team member
What is your current role?
I have been a HLA at the Dromona site for almost 6 months now. I have had the opportunity to explore different roles to gain more experience across various areas such as technical/quality and production which has developed my understanding of the processes involved. This has worked well for me and my own personal development within Dromona.
What have you been particularly proud of during your time at dale farm?
I am proud of how well I have adapted from the change of school life to a full-time job in such a short space of time. I was surprised at how easily I settled into Dromona - from the beginning I felt most welcome, which has enabled me to become an effective team member. I am extremely proud to be a part of one of the most well-known dairy industries in Northern Ireland, especially being from a dairy farming background myself.
What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship?
Don’t feel pressured into doing a university degree just because that is what your friends are doing. Apprenticeships come with so many benefits such as financial and professional experience in a working environment which develops your career. It is an opportunity to earn and learn at the same time – you still get that ‘uni experience’ as you spend 4 weeks a year at Loughry meeting new people on the same course.