Tom Farmiloe has successfully passed and completed his apprenticeship at NEIDA, marking a significant milestone in his engineering career. Before joining the program, Tom had already completed a Level 2 Engineering Course at Newcastle College, giving him a strong foundation in the field. With a long-standing passion for engineering, he embraced the opportunity to join NEIDA’s first apprenticeship specifically tailored to quality and inspection modules.
“Having a passion for engineering, enrolling on a quality pathway apprenticeship was the perfect career choice for me.”
Tom Familoe, Quality Engineer, NEIDA, Stoke-on-Trent
Tom’s journey with NEIDA began after a week of work experience in the Quality Department at the company’s Head Office. Inspired by this experience, he enrolled on the EAL Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering – Technical Support Technician Pathway, delivered by NSCG. Alongside this, he studied CNC Programming and CAD, strengthening his understanding of how components at NEIDA are manufactured.
Throughout his time in the Quality Department, Tom gained invaluable practical experience. His course modules, which he applied directly in his role, included: inspecting mechanical products, checking and calibrating mechanical inspection equipment, resolving engineering or manufacturing support problems, and implementing quality control systems and procedures in an engineering environment. This hands-on learning was powerfully complemented by off-the-job training, a crucial part of any apprenticeship. This dedicated time away from daily tasks allowed him to gain vital knowledge and skills.
Tom received training on how to operate a Vici measuring machine, a state-of-the-art optical system for quickly and accurately inspecting cylindrical parts. Mastering this technology was a significant benefit, as it taught him to use modern, efficient quality control methods that eliminate human error and speed up the inspection process.
“Tom has taken ownership of our Vici optical measuring system, independently programming and operating it to ensure consistent, repeatable inspection results. He has also supported improvements to our gauge calibration processes, helping to further strengthen the robustness of our quality systems.”
Steve Morris, Quality Engineer, NEIDA, Stoke-on-Trent
Tom also benefited from visiting plating suppliers, which was key to building a comprehensive understanding of the manufacturing process. These visits not only taught him how components are plated and the procedures involved but also helped him build professional relationships with supplier, a foundational skill for ensuring a smooth and reliable supply chain.
As part of his professional development, Tom completed a fire safety course, which earned him a certificate and the added responsibility of being a designated fire warden. This is just one example of the many essential skills he gained outside of his core technical training, demonstrating how apprenticeships help individuals grow into well-rounded and responsible employees. While these are notable examples of his off-the-job training, he has had much more throughout his apprenticeship, and his professional development will continue into his full-time career to ensure he remains knowledgeable and up-to-date in quality and other essential areas.
“This apprenticeship gave me the chance to gain valuable experience in a real working environment. I learned new technical skills and developed a better understanding of how engineering companies operate. My colleagues were incredibly supportive, making it easy to learn and grow in my role.”
Tom Familoe, Quality Engineer, NEIDA, Stoke-on-Trent
While the apprenticeship was challenging at times, the support from his knowledgeable and supportive mentors was crucial. He not only learned a great deal about quality and engineering but also gained valuable life skills.
A key part of his training involved confronting real-world scenarios, such as when precision components didn’t pass inspection. Instead of being a setback, these moments became valuable learning experiences, as he learned to follow established procedures to identify the root cause of the issue and work with his team to find a solution. With the guidance of his colleagues, he became more confident, not just in his skills but as a person.
“I’ve always had a passion for engineering, and enrolling on a quality pathway apprenticeship was the perfect career choice for me. I’m proud of what I’ve achieved and excited about the opportunities ahead.”
Tom Familoe, Quality Engineer, NEIDA, Stoke-on-Trent
Since completing his Quality Pathway Apprenticeship, Tom has continued his career within NEIDA’s Quality function, taking on increased responsibility and contributing to the ongoing improvement of quality systems across the business. He is now involved in projects focused on strengthening and modernising quality processes, supporting NEIDA’s commitment to continuous improvement.
A key area of Tom’s current work is the digitisation of quality systems, helping to improve how inspection data, quality records, and documentation are managed across production activities and group locations. This supports greater consistency, traceability, and efficiency throughout NEIDA’s manufacturing operations.
Tom also works closely with the Commercial team, supporting quality input on new and ongoing projects and helping to ensure production requirements are clearly defined and aligned across NEIDA sites. This collaboration enables smoother project delivery and reinforces consistent quality standards throughout the business.
Through this expanded role, Tom continues to develop both technically and professionally, gaining a broader understanding of how quality supports production performance, commercial activity, and operational excellence across NEIDA.
“Since completing my apprenticeship, I’ve been able to take on more responsibility within the Quality team and apply what I’ve learned in a more independent role. Working on system improvements, digitisation, and supporting customer and supplier requirements has helped me develop both technically and professionally, and I’m looking forward to continuing to build my career at NEIDA.”
Tom Familoe, Quality Engineer, NEIDA, Stoke-on-Trent
NEIDA offers Mechanical and Electrical Engineering apprenticeships at its manufacturing sites in Stoke-on-Trent and the Isle of Wight, as well as specialised programs like the Quality Pathway Apprenticeship completed by Tom. These schemes combine hands-on work experience with weekly college sessions and formal assessments, enabling apprentices to earn a competitive salary while working toward a nationally recognised qualification.
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Tom Farmiloe has successfully completed his Quality Pathway Apprenticeship at NEIDA, building on his prior engineering education. The program blended practical experience with off-the-job training, enhancing his technical skills and confidence through learning modern quality control methods and developing professional relationships.
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From 5th – 11th February businesses across the UK come together for National Apprentice Week 2024.
After completing an A-level in Engineering, Amelia Reeves has enrolled on a Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship in Business Administration at NEIDA.
Congratulations to recently graduated Machining Apprentices Ethan Rotherham and Adam Thompson on securing full-time CNC sliding head setter positions at NEIDA.
Due to continuous growth, NEIDA has two additional CNC sliding head machines on order.
After completing work experience in the Quality department at NEIDA, Tom Farmiloe, has enrolled on an EAL Level 2 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering with a technical support technician pathway.
Congratulations to recently graduated Business Administration Apprentice, Phoebe Bentley, in securing a full-time position within our busy commercial department at NEIDA.
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