There aren’t many people who can say they have dedicated over 40 years of service to one company and one industry. Paul McNaughton started as an apprentice for Darke & Taylor back in the 1970s and is now the Managing Director. His success is a great example of where hard work and enthusiasm can get you and he is passionate about creating career opportunities for electrical apprentices
Paul McNaughton, Managing Director, Darke & Taylor:
“I was very fortunate to get the opportunity to become an Electrical Engineering Apprentice at Darke & Taylor in the 1970s.
The apprenticeship I served gave me both the technical grounding and hands-on experience to be able to understand electrotechnical systems. Combining the knowledge I gained with working hard, showing enthusiasm and never giving up, enabled me to develop my career at Darke & Taylor and gain a vast amount of experience within the wider industry. I have held roles including Electrician, Site Foreman, Estimator, Contracts Manager, Managing Director and President of the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) in 2012-13. None of these would have been possible without the foundation that my apprenticeship gave me.
The electrical industry is continually advancing and is at the forefront of some exciting, innovative and environmental technologies, so there is no better time to consider a career in the industry. We need new entrants to ensure the industry is well placed to meet demand, to capitalise on new markets and explore new opportunities. Over 60% of our current management team started with the company as an apprentice which proves that there are long-term, fulfilling careers available to those who have the motivation to succeed.
Remember when taking on an Apprenticeship role, be a team player, work hard, don’t be afraid to ask if you need help, listen and think ahead because the sky is your limit!”
