It’s traditional for the older generation to complain about “the youth of today”, but Pennine Pneumatic Services (PPS) service engineer Leland Heslop has set a shining example as a role model for young people in engineering.
Halifax born and bred, Leland is an award-winning apprentice, who has raised money for charity by getting on his bike – more of that later – and inspired the next generation of young engineers.
Early inspiration
Following the lead of family members already working in the field of engineering, Leland first did work experience with PPS whilst still at school.
“I like the variety and the fact that it’s a hands-on job,” he says. “People know PPS is a good company and they trust us to do a good job.”
Apprentice of the Year winner
After completing his four-year apprenticeship leading to a Level 3BTech in Mechanical Engineering, Leland won the prestigious 2019 Apprentice of the Year award at the Calderdale Excellence in Business Awards.
Described by his training provider as “a very reliable, punctual, trustworthy and hardworking learner”, Leland earned this accolade both for his personal achievements and for the positive impact he made at PPS.
“Saving our customers money”
As a compressed air service engineer, Leland has excelled in his role, delivering ongoing preventative maintenance and emergency support to PPS customers in a variety of manufacturing industries.
PPS Service Manager Paul Thomas notes: “It’s been a pleasure to see Leland both mature and motivate himself to become an excellent service engineer. He has proven he has the high customer service standards PPS achieve, and the ability to adapt and deliver in any given situation. He has a very bright future at PPS.”
Riding high
Going above and beyond comes naturally to Leland and he has helped to raise vital funds for a variety of good causes by taking part in the annual PPS charity bike ride - a 41-mile route between the company’s sites in Brighouse and Sheffield.
Leland has also helped out with the company’s activities for Bradford Manufacturing Week and National Apprenticeship Week, inspiring a new generation of students who come every year to tour the PPS offices.
Managing Director of PPS, Ian Harrison, says: “Leland has always been reliable, punctual, polite and keen to learn – setting a strong example for others of his age. For me apprenticeships are crucial for ensuring succession within our business. Leland’s experience is a success story for this route into the workplace.”
