“As we bring in new robots, there will be more opportunities. It’s an exciting area. Robots are the future.”
Working at the cutting edge of cleaning technology
Trainee Technician Jamie Delahunt swapped tinkering with his bike at home as a youngster to become a robotics expert at one of the world’s leading manufacturers of cleaning equipment and chemicals, Kärcher UK.
Jamie helps diagnose problems with autonomous scrubber dryers and vacuum cleaners, replace parts, and repair them.
He said: “When I have fixed a machine, I’m happy that I’ve achieved something. I’ve always liked tinkering with machines, it keeps my mind active. I used to fix my bike at home and now I fix my car in my spare time. If I wasn’t doing something with my hands, I would be bored. “
Four years ago, he joined the company from school as an apprentice. For two years, he spent two days a week studying electrical and mechanical engineering at college and three days a week working, with regular assessments, to earn a Level 3 qualification in Mechatronics.
Jamie has benefited from a lot of training, including the chance to go to Germany to work on the firm’s first robotic cleaning machine to come onto the UK market.
He said: “I saw an opportunity and I took it. I am always learning and never feel like I know it all. Without the training I’ve been offered, I wouldn’t be able to do what I can now. It’s good fun. Working here has also built my confidence and social skills.
“As we bring in new robots, there will be more opportunities. It’s an exciting area. Robots are the future.”