7 minutes | Wednesday, 2 September 2026
If you have a question about an apprenticeship, click hereWhat happens after you complete an apprenticeship? How do you decide which career path is right for you?In Episode 8 of the WorkWise Apprenticeship Podcast, Callum speaks to Joe Harvey about his apprenticeship journey, the skills he developed along the way, and why he chose to specialise in plumbing.Joe began his career in September 2023 as a Level 2 Property Maintenance Apprentice while studying at City of Portsmouth College. During the two-year programme, he spent one day each week at college while gaining valuable hands-on experience in the workplace.One of the biggest benefits of the Property Maintenance Apprenticeship is the opportunity to experience a variety of trades. Throughout his training, Joe developed practical skills in plumbing, carpentry, plastering, electrical work, painting and decorating, tiling, flooring, general maintenance, temporary repairs and customer service.This broad experience allowed him to gain a better understanding of the industry and discover which trade suited his interests and strengths.After successfully completing his apprenticeship, Joe decided to focus on plumbing and has now progressed into the role of Plumbing Improver. Since May 2026, he has been working independently, putting into practice the skills and knowledge he developed during his apprenticeship while continuing to gain experience on the job.Joe is currently awaiting his formal qualification certificate and will soon progress into a role as a fully qualified plumber, marking the next step in his career.During the episode, Joe talks about what attracted him to an apprenticeship, the challenges and rewards of learning multiple trades, and how he made the decision to specialise in plumbing. He also shares insights into a typical working day and offers advice for young people who may be considering a similar career path.For anyone interested in plumbing, property maintenance or the construction industry, Joe's story highlights how apprenticeships can provide a strong foundation, helping you explore different opportunities before choosing the route that suits you best.Listen now to hear how Joe developed his skills, found his passion for plumbing, and is building a successful career through apprenticeship training.If you have any questions about the podcast, apprenticeships or Mountjoy please send us a message.