As part of National Apprenticeship Week, we’re proud to be shining a light on the people who represent the future of our industry. Apprenticeships play a vital role at CDS and the wider Obsequio Group, helping us develop talent, build skills for life, and support individuals as they take their first steps – or their next steps – in their careers.
One of those people is Neve Reid, a CDS apprentice whose journey so far highlights just how valuable hands-on learning, real responsibility and the right support can be. We caught up with Neve to talk about why she chose an apprenticeship, what she’s learned so far, and where she hopes her career will take her next.
Choosing a practical path
For Neve, an apprenticeship offered something that traditional routes didn’t.
“I chose an apprenticeship because it felt like the best mix of learning and doing the job,” she explains. “I liked the idea of getting real experience, earning money, and building skills at the same time.”
While university can be the right choice for many, Neve felt a more practical, workplace-focused route would suit her better. An apprenticeship gave her the opportunity to build confidence, understand how a professional environment really works, and develop relationships across the business – all while gaining recognised skills.
“It’s helped me learn on the job, grow my confidence and understand how the workplace really works, as well as building relationships with people I wouldn’t expect,” she adds.
Stepping into something new
Starting an apprenticeship often means stepping into unfamiliar territory, and Neve’s experience was no different.
“When I got the call, I was really excited to start,” she says. “At the same time, I was a bit nervous because I was going into a completely new environment, working with new people and doing something I’d never done before.”
That mix of excitement and nerves is something many apprentices recognise. But for Neve, pushing beyond her comfort zone quickly became part of the learning process.
“Even though it was out of my comfort zone, I saw it as a great opportunity to learn, challenge myself and grow.”
Learning, growing and gaining confidence
When asked about the biggest learning moment so far, Neve doesn’t point to a single task or project. Instead, she reflects on the personal growth that comes with time, responsibility and trust.
“The biggest surprise in my apprenticeship was seeing how much I’ve grown and matured since I started,” she says. “Over time, I’ve become more confident in my abilities, more comfortable taking on responsibility and better at handling challenges that once felt overwhelming.”
That growth is exactly what apprenticeships are designed to support. By combining structured learning with real-world experience, apprentices gain not just technical knowledge, but also confidence, resilience and problem-solving skills – qualities that are essential in the fire and life safety industry.
Looking ahead
Neve is clear about what she wants to achieve as her apprenticeship continues.
“I’m most excited about continuing to grow in my role and being able to use all the skills I’ve learned throughout my apprenticeship to move forward in my career,” she explains.
Her ambition is to progress into a full-time coordinator role, building on her experience and taking on greater responsibility as her confidence continues to grow.
“I’m looking forward to gaining more experience, taking on more responsibility and building my confidence as I progress.”
Advice for future apprentices
For anyone considering an apprenticeship in fire and security, Neve has clear and practical advice.
“I’d definitely encourage anyone considering an apprenticeship in the fire and security field to go for it,” she says. “Be open to learning by asking questions, showing initiative and being reliable.”
She’s also keen to highlight that mistakes are part of the journey – not something to be feared.
“It’s important not to be afraid of making mistakes, as they’re a key part of learning. Overall, the skills and experience you gain during the apprenticeship provide a strong foundation for a long-term career in the industry.”
Celebrating apprenticeships at CDS
Neve’s story is a great example of how apprenticeships help individuals grow while strengthening our business and our industry as a whole. At CDS, we’re proud to support apprentices at every stage of their journey, providing opportunities to learn, develop and build meaningful careers in fire detection and life safety.
As part of National Apprenticeship Week, we’re celebrating not just qualifications, but confidence, capability and potential – and we’re incredibly proud of the commitment our apprentices show every day.
