We sat down with Aidan John Teeuwen, one of the newest additions to the team here at LOS.
What initially attracted you to join LOS, and how has that initial impression evolved over the years?
“I wanted to try something new and learn something new after I had finished secondary school. My initial impression which has evolved over the first year that I have been there is that the company is very focused on their employees and how the company wants to improve over the next 6 years.”
Reflecting on your time with LOS, what achievements or contributions are you most proud of?
“In the time I have done so far with LOS, they have also been very supportive outside of work. I am a Kayaker. I train 6 days a week. The sessions are an hour on the water and an hour in the gym after the water session. They have been very kind in sponsoring me, and they bought me a K2 boat for 2 people. My k2 partner and I competed and won the junior devices to Westminster canoe race but sadly both times we have done it, it has been cut short because of the bad river conditions. For work, I also have had to complete and pass an online exam called the ECS test which you must do to be able to work on site. You are given a card to prove this to show when you enter the site in the morning.”
In what ways has the company provided opportunities for you to grow both personally and professionally?
“My first year in my apprenticeship included 2 days at college. This consists of one day of Maths and English functional skills and the second day is the theory side of the electrical apprenticeship where I gain more skills about the trade. The company has allowed me to vary my working hours to be able to get to my kayaking training in the evenings.”
What unique perks or benefits does the company offer that have made a difference in your tenure here?
“Working for a family-oriented company makes me feel comfortable and safe working with the people around me. I have also had support with my college courses.”
What motivates you to stay with the company for so long?
“I am doing an electrical 3-year (going on 4) apprenticeship. I have been with them for 1 year so far and I am looking forward to learning new things in the coming years.”
What advice would you give to new employees just starting out in the company?
“The advice I would give them would be that the company will help you with anything you possibly need and get you through the courses you want to pass and won’t hesitate to help you through things you might find difficult or are unsure of.
They will always say no question is a stupid question.
So don’t ever be afraid to ever ask someone a question.
My dad and I were both born with (DLD) this is called difficulty language disorder which means we struggle to learn at the same pace as a person without any learning difficulty, the company has helped me a lot so far and is willing to help me as much as I need to get through my apprenticeship and I am very thankful for all the work they have done for me.
So, the moral to this is if you ever feel like you need help, don’t ever feel down and out to ask someone for help because the company will not hesitate, and they will be more than happy to help you.”
What do you enjoy most about working here, and what keeps you excited to come to work every day?
“I enjoy coming to work every day because I have made many new friends, I also enjoy coming to work because I am always excited to learn a new thing every day and become an excellent electrician and grow as an individual throughout my life and career.”
Can you share a challenging moment or obstacle you faced while working here and how you overcame it?
“Starting out was quite difficult until I was able to get to know the names of tools and what they are used for. Another thing that I struggled with is getting used to the different names of materials such as the different types of screws, bolts, and what a cable tray and uni-strut were.”
Looking ahead, what are your hopes and aspirations for the future of both your career and the company?
“I would like to become as good as an electrician as I can be for both myself and the company’s sake.”