Ellis Stevenson reflects on her journey from apprentice to qualified electrician

As the UK looks to achieve its ambitious net zero targets, the demand for skilled electricians continues to grow. We spoke with Ellis Stevenson, electrician at NICEIC-certified Campbell and McHardy and winner of SkillELECTRIC 2025 to hear how her apprenticeship set her on a path filled with opportunity, and why now is the perfect time for others to do the same.

Apprentice to national champion

When Ellis first embarked on her electrical apprenticeship and later filled out the application for SkillELECTRIC she had no idea how much it would transform her career.

“The opportunities that have come after have been amazing,” she reflects. “It has opened so many new doors, from events, to meeting new people. It’s been incredible.”

“After I won SkillELECTRIC, things have stayed the same at work, I just keep trying to learn and improve” she continues. “But on site, I have met lots of people who had seen the result and asked me about the competition. It’s been really nice.”

The power of apprenticeships

Ellis is clear that choosing an apprenticeship was the right path for her and could be for many others. “One of the best things about apprenticeships is learning while earning. You’re building your skills, gaining a qualification, and you’re not coming out the other end with debt or career worries.” She also highlights the job security that apprenticeships can offer “With a lot of university courses, there’s no guarantee you’ll get a job. With an apprenticeship, you’re learning on the job from day one and by the end it’s much easier to move into a full-time role.”

Ellis was also keen to highlight that the skills required for an electrical career are varied and can suit people from many backgrounds. “The theory will always be important but for me things click when I’m doing them. I couldn’t sit in a classroom full time and learn from paper. Being out on site early made such a difference. It’s ideal for people who prefer practical learning.”

An evolving industry

Ellis believes that misconceptions about the electrotechnical sector still hold some young people back. But the reality is far more dynamic

“It’s not just wiring houses. There are so many options with solar PV, EV charging, and renewables. With everything moving toward sustainable energy, there are loads of opportunities.”

Her own apprenticeship has been varied, giving her experience across different types of work. Now qualified, she’s focused on broadening her skills even further.

“In 2026 I want to take more courses, especially around PV and EV. There’s so much happening in the sector that you can keep expanding your knowledge forever.”

The next generation

Following her SkillELECTRIC win, Ellis is now a WorldSkills UK Skills Champion, preparing to visit colleges and schools to encourage future competitors and future electricians.

“If I’d had someone come into my school and explain what an apprenticeship was really like, that would’ve been amazing. I want to give that back.”

Her message to young people considering an apprenticeship is simple:

“I would definitely recommend it. You’re earning while learning, you get hands on experience, and you finish with a qualification that can take you down so many routes. There are hard days, but stick with it. It’s 100% worth it.”