Life at CWE – learning the ropes as an apprentice quality inspector

At CWE, we’re proud to be part of the UK rail industry. We believe it’s a great place to work and that our friendly team showcases the best of the sector. In this series, Life at CWE, we’ll be providing a glimpse into the life of our staff. We hope this will give readers a sense of the work our brilliant people do and the diverse range of talents and skills that make up the world of rail engineering.

In this month’s episode, we honour national apprenticeship week 2025, and get to know dynamic world of rail and CWE through apprentice quality inspector/fitter, James Danby. This includes reflecting on his journey so far, core responsibilities and his aspirations for the future.

Talk me through a typical day in the life of an apprentice quality inspector/fitter.

I’m close to finishing my level 3 apprenticeship which is through Heta; I’m just closing and finishing off paper work for my portfolio and am in the final stages of the apprenticeship so a lot of my time is spent perfecting that and making sure I’m filling it in to the best of my ability. Then of course I have my job too, so I oversee the in-process and final inspections of critical components on site, including buffers and fabrication jobs. I’m currently working across all area of the business making sure everyone is doing the right thing, so every day could be different for me. I’m projected to finish my apprenticeship in three months, so I’m really looking forward to continuing my journey here and starting the next chapter.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years.

I’d like to progress within the company, potentially move into the quality part of the company. I have recently discovered I have a real passion for quality, I like to make to make sure everyone is working together towards the same goal, and making sure everyone is working to the right specifications and policies.

Is there anyone you look up to at CWE, or aspire to be like?

When I look across CWE, there are so many inspirational team members, I think it is incredible what our managing director, Dave Bates, has achieved, from apprentice himself and working up through the ranks to MD. I think that’s an incredible story. Then there is Colin Jaques on site who knows everything there is to know. He’s got a very knowledgeable insight into all the products we manufacture at CWE. He’s got the technical expertise, but also knows how to run the ship well and manage people to the best of their ability, he’s clued up with management. I would love to follow in the footsteps of Dave and Col and make an impact on this company.

What advise would you give to a young person wanting to embark on an apprenticeship?

I’d say be prepared for it not to be plain sailing, be prepared for it to be challenging and be prepared that you’ll have to be dynamic and adaptable in your role. You may go into your apprenticeship expecting something, or having your heart set on a specific role, but the industry is ever changing and work load can dictate where you need your focus to be. I thought I would be a mechanical fitter, but I have ended up in the quality and inspector role and I absolutely love it.

What is your favourite part about your role?

My favourite part of my role is seeing the improvement within the company, and how I can make a genuine difference and impact. I have played a big part in the different policies and procedures that we have put in place, and you can already see how long term they are going to benefit the company. I really enjoy coming up with ways we can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the team, and the final product that leaves CWE to the customer.

How did you fit in at CWE?

When I first joined CWE, I was lucky to be placed with a great group that I could learn from but also that made me feel really welcome within the team. They are all extroverts and make work a nice place to be. That goes all the way through the company, they have quickly whipped me into shape, and it is a lovely team of people from management to the shop floor. We are all here for each other, and all working towards the same goal.

Tell me something interesting about yourself!

I play guitar in a band! I have done it for 4 years now, and this year we have some really exciting gigs coming up!