National Apprenticeship Week 2026
This week, as part of National Apprenticeship Week, we’re sharing reflections from some of our current apprentices to showcase their experiences, the skills they’re developing, and the paths they’ve taken since joining SAS International. With apprentices starting at different times and working across a broad range of areas within the business, each journey offers a unique perspective.
Our commitment to apprenticeships helps us invest in the next generation and has also contributed to our Cradle to Cradle certification in the area of human rights and social fairness. SAS supports more than six apprentices every year across the UK, creating opportunities for long-term development and growth.
Here’s what they had to say about their time so far…
PDC Engineer Apprentice
“I have learned how to use machines like a laser cutter for sheet metal and a brakepress to forms tiles. I learnt how to create and modify models for tile development and processing. I am currently in the product engineering department where I have been able to create models and drawings from scratch for multiple different jobs, including some from a high end New York Client.”
Morgan Brown
Internal Sales Apprentice
“My apprenticeship at SAS has helped me grow in so many ways for example, my confidence on communicating with colleagues and customers. I feel so much more comfortable with getting things wrong and learning and growing. I feel I can ask any question and not be judged.”
Rhianna Hawkins
Maintenance Technician
“I have been consistently challenged to learn new skills, as well as develop the mindset and confidence to use them safely. Working in a team of experienced technicians has allowed me to work with advanced machinery which I wouldn’t have the opportunity to otherwise.”
Nathan Jones
Design Apprentice
“During my time at SAS, I’ve been fortunate enough to work on a few different projects. One that stands out is designing ceiling panels for the office of a well-known watchmaker. We have been working on it for a while now, and I’m happy I was able to assist where I could.”
Kirsten Usher
Maintenance
“My mentors regularly provide constructive feedback and help me correct mistakes in a positive way. The team leads by example, shares tips from their own experience, and makes me feel like a valued part of the group. This support has built my confidence, strengthened my skills, and motivated me to keep learning and growing.”
Erikas Skorochodovas
Sector Engineer
“I’m particularly proud of leading a process improvement project that focused on reducing cycle time while maintaining product quality. It gave me the opportunity to take real ownership, apply what I’ve learned in a practical environment, and see measurable results from my work.”
George Oguh
Our products are made for generations. So are the people behind them.
At SAS International, longevity is built into everything we make. Our ceilings are engineered to perform for decades, and we take the same approach to our people. Investing in the next generation is how we protect the craftsmanship, engineering knowledge and manufacturing skill that every SAS product depends on.
Each apprentice who joins us learns from colleagues who have spent their careers mastering metal, working with advanced machinery on projects for some of the world’s most recognisable buildings. In time, they’ll pass those skills on themselves. That’s how expertise moves through SAS, from one generation of makers to the next.