As part of National Apprenticeship Week 2026, we’re getting to know our apprentice’s a little better. Today, we’re talking to Charlie Wightman, our Software Engineering Apprentice.
Charlie joined us just a few months ago through our partnership with QA, and he has already made a significant impact on our digital projects. We asked him a few questions to see how he’s finding things so far.
What made you choose an apprenticeship?
I chose an apprenticeship to get in at the ground level, to gain practical experience in the corporate environment and my chosen field. Working whilst studying to gain my qualification seemed like the best choice to me.
What’s been your favourite project or campaign to work on so far?
My favourite project was the Black Friday and Christmas “Spin the Wheel” reward page. This was a site designed for our temporary staff who had gone above and beyond, they received a card with a QR code and a unique entry key to release a spin and see if they had won a prize.
I worked closely with our Developer, Jake Dunbar, to code the page. This was the first project where I had a more considerable role with more responsibility, and it was great to see it through from start to finish.
What has been your proudest moment so far?
Finishing the Black Friday project and seeing my work being implemented.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about starting an apprenticeship?
Make sure you choose an apprenticeship you have a genuine interest in. After that, enjoy it and give 100%!
What’s your go-to productivity hack?
Music and tea. Simple but effective!
What are your career goals after your apprenticeship?
I want to continue improving on the skills the apprenticeship will equip me with and grow as a developer.
How do you see your apprenticeship shaping your future in Software Engineering?
The apprenticeship will equip me with a qualification and teach me the fundamentals of software development, whilst giving me the chance to apply that knowledge to a relevant context. Over the duration of the course, it will also develop other essential skills, such as how to approach work-life and time management.
Developing the Next Generation of Tech Talent
At Mach Recruitment, we know that the tech landscape is always evolving. By partnering with QA, the UK’s leading tech training provider, we ensure our apprentices like Charlie are learning the most up-to-date “Skills for Life.”
National Apprenticeship Week 2026 is all about celebrating these success stories and the mentorship, like the collaboration between Charlie and Jake, that makes them possible.