From Bishop Auckland College apprentice to mentor: Byron Wilson’s journey at M5tec
A leading provider of engineered solutions, M5tec, is celebrating the inspiring progression of Byron Wilson – an apprentice who has evolved into a mentor and role model within the company with help from Bishop Auckland College.
Specialising in engineering excellence for high-assurance sectors such as nuclear, fusion energy, and subsea environments, M5tec operates across the UK with offices in Oxfordshire, Warrington and head office at Newton Aycliffe in County Durham.
At just 21, Byron recently completed his Level 3 Business Administration apprenticeship with Bishop Auckland College and has now embarked on a Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship at Teesside University.
Recognising his achievements and leadership potential, M5tec invited Byron to help recruit and mentor a new apprentice – 16-year-old Micah Bennison, who has now joined the company in the same role Byron once held.
“Apprenticeships are a core part of our culture at M5tec, and as proud members of the 5% Club, my journey is just one of many examples of how employees grow through these opportunities,” Byron said.
“I’ve progressed through roles in HR and finance, and now I’m managing people. My employers see this as a positive step for both the business and my personal development.”
Micah, from Newton Aycliffe, recently completed his GCSEs at Woodham Academy and joined M5tec in June. He chose the apprenticeship route to gain hands-on experience and avoid the financial burden of university.
“Many of my peers chose A-levels, but I wanted something more practical,” Micah said.
“Apprenticeships offer real-world learning, and I find that more efficient. Having Byron as a mentor is incredibly motivating – I can see myself in his role one day.”
Byron added: “Micah has made impressive progress in just three months. Choosing an apprenticeship is a bold but rewarding decision, and it’s already paying off for both of us. I believe in apprenticeships because I’ve lived the experience. It’s fulfilling to help others start their journey.”
Byron’s own path began when he realised a traditional university degree wasn’t the right fit. He found his breakthrough at M5tec through the apprenticeship programme, which offered the perfect blend of learning and career development.
Senior Relationship Manager at Bishop Auckland College, Susan Mould, praised the ongoing partnership with M5tec.
She said: “We’re delighted to support Micah’s apprenticeship journey with M5tec, and Byron’s story is a shining example of progression and leadership. As Byron begins his degree apprenticeship, he’ll also be mentoring Micah through his Level 3 -an inspiring cycle of growth and giving back.”
And the pair have hugely impressed M5tec’s Operations Director Carl Jones.
Carl said: “It’s been a genuine pleasure watching Byron evolve into a skilled and confident professional. His journey through his apprenticeship has been impressive, and he’s become an integral part of the team.
“It’s also encouraging to see how well our new apprentice, Micah is doing, learning from Byron at the start of his career. This demonstrates the advantages that apprenticeships can offer to the business.”
*For further information about apprentices at Bishop Auckland College check out bacoll.ac.uk or for M5tec services contact enquiries@m5tec.com or check out m5tec.com.
