Leadership course prepares Neil for management after 35 years’ service

After 35 years with the same employer, Neil Rowley has prepared himself for a potential leap into management for the first time after completing a leadership programme with Bishop Auckland College.

The 52-year-old has been employed by Darchem Engineering in Stockton-on-Tees since his Sheet Metal Worker apprenticeship back in 1987.

Darchem is a market leader in the design, manufacture and installation of high integrity engineered products in stainless steel and titanium as well as thermal insulation systems for aerospace, motorsport, marine defence, nuclear and oil & gas applications.

Neil, from Darlington, has worked in various sectors such as marine, oil and gas, nuclear and aerospace during his lengthy service with the company and became a Team Leader in 2011.

He has just graduated with a Level 5 Diploma in Management and Leadership.

Neil said: “I heard about the course through work and being a Team Leader it looked like the perfect opportunity to do some training and gain further qualifications if I wish to progress with my career.

“Having been a Team Leader for a number of years, I have looked for opportunities for training during that time. The course looked like the perfect opportunity to do some training and gain further qualifications if I wish to progress with my career.

“The programme was very challenging and we had lots of obstacles during the time such as Covid-19. But with a lot of help from my assessor Michelle Cooper, I managed to complete the course, albeit taking a little longer than expected.

“I am undecided whether to go into management as yet. However, if that is the decision I take then this course has given me a good start to do that.”