Shipster’s Apprenticeship Success: A Model for Tech Recruitment
The UK’s tech industry faces a persistent skills shortage, with businesses struggling to find professionals equipped with the right expertise. Traditional hiring routes, such as graduate recruitment, often fall short due to skill mismatches and fierce competition. Apprenticeships are proving to be an effective solution, combining hands-on training with structured learning to build a highly skilled workforce.
Manchester-based shipping software provider Shipster is a prime example of how apprenticeships can address recruitment challenges. One success story is Alex Downie, a former apprentice who is now a junior developer at Shipster. His journey highlights how apprenticeships equip individuals with industry-relevant skills while helping businesses develop their workforce.
Alex Downie’s journey from apprentice to junior developer
In 2020, Alex Downie made a major career shift, leaving university after one term of studying chemistry. Recognising that traditional academia wasn’t the right fit, he pursued an IT apprenticeship with Shipster.
Over 18 months, he gained hands-on experience in a customer-facing role, developing essential communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills. The transition was initially challenging, but as he progressed, the apprenticeship became increasingly rewarding.
After completing his programme, Alex accepted a full-time role at Shipster while also pursuing a university degree in technology. Balancing both commitments, he graduated with first-class honours, further strengthening his technical expertise.
Now a junior developer, Alex plays a key role in Shipster’s operations, ensuring the company’s platform integrates smoothly with over 100 leading couriers. His responsibilities span project management, software testing, and deployment, allowing him to develop a diverse skill set that continues to grow.
Shipster’s commitment to apprenticeships and workforce development
For over a decade, Shipster has made apprenticeships a cornerstone of its recruitment strategy. The company recognises that investing in young talent builds a skilled workforce while fostering employee loyalty and long-term growth.
Shipster’s apprenticeship programme is designed to be inclusive, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds. Founder and Managing Director Tony Cheetham has been a strong advocate for apprenticeships, highlighting their mutual benefits. For businesses, they offer a cost-effective way to train employees in job-specific skills. For individuals, they provide a direct entry into the tech industry without the burden of student debt.
Shipster’s commitment to talent development strengthened in 2022 when it partnered with Fearless Adventures, an investment firm that supports high-growth tech companies. This collaboration has enabled Shipster to expand its apprenticeship offerings, giving more aspiring developers the opportunity to gain industry experience.
The wider impact of apprenticeships on the UK tech industry
The UK tech sector has long struggled with a skills gap, making it increasingly difficult for businesses to recruit qualified professionals. Apprenticeships offer a practical solution, combining academic learning with real-world experience to create a highly adaptable workforce.
The rise of degree apprenticeships has been particularly significant. Many industry groups have called for increased funding and policy reforms to make apprenticeships more accessible and aligned with employer needs.The Labour government has proposed several initiatives to address these issues, including the creation of Skills England and a ‘growth and skills levy’ to encourage businesses to invest in training.
Shipster’s approach provides a strong example of how companies can integrate apprenticeships into their growth strategy. For aspiring tech professionals, apprenticeships offer a compelling alternative to traditional higher education.
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