Networx3’s latest hires represent experience and youth
A veteran engineer and his young apprentice have swelled the ranks at Networx3.
Michael Blackston and Joseph Ryan joined the ever-growing team of nationwide engineers late last year.
The pair, from Burnley, are the latest recruits as part of a year-long hiring spree by Networx3.
Michael, a 60-year-old father-of-two and grandfather-of-one, brings more than 30 years of experience in the telecommunications industry with him.
Having served in the RAF in his 20s he rejoined civvy street and worked for BT for more than a decade. The next 20-plus years were spent self employed running his own telecommunications company.
After a few health worries in 2021 Michael decided to shut his business down and accept Networx3’s offer of a permanent job, but he was worried about the future of his 20-year-old apprentice Joseph.
Michael said: “Networx3 made me a good job offer but I didn’t want to leave Joseph unemployed. Joseph is a good lad and very bright and it wouldn’t have been right to close the company down and leave him in no man’s land.”
When Networx3 learned of Michael’s promising apprentice they decided to take him on as well, with the pair starting work on the same day.
Michael said: “Networx3 have been a longstanding contact of mine when I ran my own business – I used to pass on any fibre optic jobs to them. As a result, I knew they’d be a good company to work for. It’s been a big change to my life but I’m enjoying it – there are lots of stresses and strains in running your own business and I don’t miss that.”
Joseph said: “I spent a year of my apprenticeship with Michael and loved learning on the job. That stood me in good stead for joining Networx3. I’m really enjoying it and have some great colleagues to work with.”
Commercial director Caroline Earnshaw said: “Michael joined Networx3 after reflection on his long standing career in the telecoms industry. He joins us with a wealth of knowledge, invaluable in an ever evolving industry and is a very welcome addition to the team.
“Likewise, Joe has fitted into the expanding team amazingly well and is already receiving praise for his diligent and positive attitude. Joe is a local lad to the business and we hope he continues to develop and has a long standing career with us.”