Reece’s story in Health & Safety

At Rokbak, we believe our people are the driving force behind everything we build. Reece’s apprenticeship journey is one of adaptability, resilience, and a powerful example of how hands-on experience is vital.

Reece began his career in a plumbing apprenticeship, but early redundancy meant his career took an unexpected turn. Instead of letting that hold him back, he took the opportunity to move into a health and safety apprenticeship within the manufacturing sector.

Since joining the team, Reece understands that developing people and leadership skills is just as important as technical knowledge. Alongside his daily role, he recently completed Situational Leadership Awareness training with Scottish Engineering and online leadership development modules through Volvo Group University.

Reece’s technical development has been equally impressive. He successfully completed his NEBOSH Certificate and has become a confident advocate for health and safety best practice across the manufacturing environment. Reece also plays a fundamental role in managing our ISO standards and has qualified as an internal auditor. From carrying out safety inspections to leading meetings with first aiders, energy champions, and local safety committees, Reece is making a real difference every day.

“Working with Rokbak has had a positive impact on me both professionally and personally. I’ve grown more confident in my abilities, especially when it comes to speaking in front of groups, something I never thought I could do. Since joining in October 2023, I’ve come on leaps and bounds.”

Reece recently graduated from his apprenticeship and was also named Apprentice of the Year, as voted for by his colleagues across the Motherwell site – a recognition of both his hard work and the respect he has earned across the team. Now promoted to HSE Advisor, Reece continues to go above and beyond to help other employees. His journey shows exactly what an apprenticeship is all about – learning on the job, building confidence, and developing skills that last.

Inclusive training in action: Rhys’ story

Rhys’ journey shows how the right support and opportunities can help people thrive in the workplace.

Rhys joined Rokbak through our partnership with North Lanarkshire Council and its Supported Employment No Limits Scheme, quickly becoming a valued member of the Paint Shop team. The North Lanarkshire Council Supported Employment scheme helps individuals seeking work connect with employers looking to recruit. Operating as a social enterprise, it supports people with a range of abilities and focuses on matching individuals with the right role, with the right employer, at the right time.

Throughout his apprenticeship, Rhys has gained hands-on experience across a variety of tasks, from spray painting Rokbak bodies and detailed components to supporting work on the assembly line, continually developing his skills along the way. Since day one, Rhys has integrated well into the Paint Shop team, building strong relationships with his colleagues. In 2022, at just 19 years old, Rhys was also recognised as Young Person of the Year by CeeD (Centre for Engineering, Education and Development).

Having Rhys as part of the team has also encouraged us as an organisation to think differently about training and development. Working closely with Rhys, the Paint Shop team leader, Charlie, has explored alternative ways of sharing information and providing guidance to ensure learning is more inclusive. This has been a valuable experience and has prompted wider discussions about how similar approaches could be applied across other areas of the business and future training initiatives.

Graeme’s journey: From apprenticeship to Product Manager

Graeme’s career at Rokbak is another strong example of how apprenticeships can create long-term opportunities across the business.

Graeme began his apprenticeship in August 2014 as a CNC Machinist, choosing this route because he wanted to earn while he learned. His early training took place at EKGTA, where he spent a year split between theory and practical learning. He then returned to the factory while continuing his development through day-release college for two years, studying Manufacturing Engineering, before completing his apprenticeship in 2018.

In 2019, Graeme moved into the Development Department, where he spent nearly six years testing and developing new products. This hands-on experience gave him a deep understanding of how ideas progress from concept through to production, as well as valuable insight into customer needs and product performance in real-world applications.

In June 2025, Graeme progressed into his current role as Product Manager where he now helps shape the future of Rokbak products.

Graeme’s journey demonstrates how a strong technical foundation, combined with continuous learning and collaboration, can open pathways into strategic and leadership-focused roles.