Meet Ali Khaled, Engineering Technician Apprentice at Lucy Electric
As we continue celebrating National Careers Week, we’re delighted to introduce Ali Khaled, an Engineering Technician Apprentice at Lucy Electric. Ali’s journey is an example of how hands‑on learning, mentorship, and a supportive team can accelerate personal and professional growth.
From building real‑world engineering skills to designing a fully functional Red Bull soapbox kart, his apprenticeship has turned curiosity into capability and passion into progress.
Choosing the Apprenticeship Route
For Ali, choosing an engineering apprenticeship over a full‑time university course came down to opportunity. “Learning on the job, earning a salary, and securing a role within an established company gave my career a massive head start. For me, it was an easy choice.” This practical route allowed him to build experience and confidence from day one.
Engineering Creativity in Action
A standout moment has been designing a fully functional Red Bull soapbox kart during his design engineering rotation. “I used 3D CAD/CAM/CAE software to model every individual part before building the final assembly, which I then presented to senior engineers and the Engineering Director.” The project brought together innovation, technical skill, and presentation—key components of modern engineering.
Overcoming Challenges
Early on, Ali discovered that introversion was slowing his progress. “The environment at Lucy Electric and The Engineering Trust encouraged me to open up. It helped me swap a passive approach for a proactive, goal‑driven mindset.” With support from mentors and peers, he pushed beyond his comfort zone and gained confidence in his role.
Guidance and Influence
Ali credits much of his growth to the people around him. “Being surrounded by experienced engineers who take the time to share their expertise has set a high standard for my own work.” Mentorship from both Lucy Electric and The Engineering Trust has encouraged him to stay curious, take initiative, and continually build his skills.
Ambitions for the Future
His advice to future engineers is simple: “Go for it! You earn, learn, and secure your future all in one programme. Engineering is such a vast industry, the experience you gain can open almost endless pathways.” He also highlights the supportive culture: “The culture at Lucy Electric is friendly, welcoming, and incredibly supportive. You’re encouraged to ask questions and learn from the experts around you.”
Looking ahead, Ali hopes to deepen his knowledge in design engineering, software, and automation, and continue his education with a degree. “I want to become a versatile engineer who can bridge the gap between the digital and physical sides of a project.”
Inspired by Ali’s story?
Explore our apprenticeships and career opportunities: https://www.lucygroup.com/careers/