Madison Cooney
Madison Cooney was one of the very first Apprenticeship to join our Digital Device Repair Technician Apprenticeship.
It was launched here at TMT First, in partnership with the Institute for Apprenticeships Tech Education (IfATE) and is a 21-month qualification which has been rolled out nationally. Rapid technological advancements have escalated the demand for highly skilled professionals and the apprenticeship offers comprehensive training that goes beyond standard repair techniques. The skills and knowledge taught on the apprenticeship is creating technicians who are not just experts in their field but who will play a huge part in helping the mobile device industry become more sustainable.
As part of the apprenticeship, apprentices learn all about the theory behind fixing mobile devices as well as being given the knowledge, skills and practical experience of repairing and refurbishing devices. The comprehensive curriculum is also designed to produce skilled professionals who can significantly reduce electronic waste. The apprenticeship is actually the first, ‘dark green’ standard in the digital space, which means it has been set up to contribute to the UK’s mission to become Net Zero by 2050. Those that complete the apprenticeship, are offered a position as a Digital Device Repair Technician with a great package of benefits and career progression opportunities.
We are looking for anyone with an interest in technology, who likes fixing and repairing things. Our apprenticeship is aimed at those who have a passion for bringing tech back to life and want to pursue a career in the tech industry.
The apprenticeship has been designed to upskill and futureproof the next generation of digital repair technicians. It also helps bridge the severe skills gap in the tech industry.
Rapid technological advancements have escalated the demand for highly skilled professionals and the apprenticeship offers comprehensive training that goes beyond standard repair techniques.
The skills and knowledge taught on the apprenticeship will create technicians who are not just experts in their field but who will play a huge part in helping the mobile device industry become more sustainable.
There are 71 million mobile phones in the UK alone. It shouldn’t be a case of if your mobile breaks, you instantly think about getting a new one. There needs to be resources in place to make repairs a go to option – it is much better for a customer’s pocket and is certainly much better for the environment.
Up until the launch of the apprenticeship there just have not been enough skilled technicians available to repair all the devices that need fixing and as the number of devices grows across the UK, the skills shortage will only increase further.
The Digital Device Repair Technician Apprenticeship is an absolute gamechanger as it is going to help fill that gap.
They will learn all about the theory behind fixing mobile devices as well as being given the knowledge, skills and practical experience of repairing and refurbishing devices.
The comprehensive curriculum is designed to produce skilled professionals who can significantly reduce electronic waste, helping the transition to a circular economy.
As we commit to the UK’s ambitious goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, this apprenticeship takes on a new significance. It is not just about repairing devices; it’s about nurturing a workforce capable of making significant contributions to environmental sustainability. By extending the life of digital devices, they will actively contribute to reducing the carbon footprint associated with the production and disposal of electronics.
The apprenticeship is for 21 months.
Pre-pandemic the development of the apprenticeship had been muted and Covid stopped its development before the necessary work to launch had been completed. In March 2023, TMT’s founder launched a campaign to get the necessary backing to get the apprenticeship off the ground again – less than 12 months on, his vision has now become a reality.
It builds on the work he has already done on a local level. He was at the forefront of launching TMT’s own in-house Training Academy, in partnership with Samsung in 2020 to upskill the next generation of mobile device technicians. Much of the skills, knowledge and content from this training now forms part of the national apprenticeship.
Working with the Institute for Apprenticeships Technical Education (IfATE), TMT First created a trailblazer group, involving a range of partners and industry experts to create the apprenticeship and its content.
If they complete the apprenticeship, they will be offered a position as a Digital Device Repair Technician.
Anyone with an interest in technology, who likes fixing and repairing things would enjoy it. It is aimed at those who have a passion for bringing tech back to life.
The apprenticeship is the first ‘dark green,’ standard in the digital space, which means it has been set up to contribute to the UK’s mission to become Net Zero by 2050.
People can apply via the TMT First link below directly or the Find an Apprenticeship website (https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship). You can apply to complete an apprenticeship if you:
You can have a previous qualification, like a degree, and still start an apprenticeship.
Madison Cooney was one of the very first Apprenticeship to join our Digital Device Repair Technician Apprenticeship.
Isabella Harrison was one of the very first Apprentices to join our Digital Device Repair Technician Apprenticeship.
Up until now there just haven’t been enough skilled technicians available to repair all the devices that need fixing and as the number of devices grows across the UK, the skills shortage will only increase further. The National Digital Device Repair Technician Apprenticeship is an absolute gamechanger as it is helping fill that gap. This apprenticeship isn’t just about repairing devices; it's about nurturing a workforce capable of making significant contributions to environmental sustainability. By extending the life of digital devices, we can actively reduce the carbon footprint associated with the production and disposal of electronics, which is vital as we commit to the UK’s ambitious target of reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050.
My role involved coordinating with industry partners, educational institutions, and regulatory bodies to develop the Apprenticeship Framework to ensure the highest standards of training. The apprenticeship has become the first Dark Green Apprenticeship in the digital space, demonstrating exceptional commitment to sustainability. The curriculum includes sustainable repair techniques, reducing electronic waste and improving environmental sustainability.
The Apprenticeship has been designed to help us fill the skills shortage and create the next generation of technicians. During the apprenticeship they will learn everything from the theory and processes used to all aspects of the practical. Apprentices who complete the qualification are guaranteed a role within our repair centre, with great career opportunities. Ideally, we would like applicants to have a genuine interest in technology and the right attitude. They really don’t need to have experience in the industry as we will give them all the training needed.”
To find out more about our apprenticeship please contact us on 01782 576930 or email: [email protected]
