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Marcus Leyshon is an apprentice Digital Design Engineer at Ainscough Crane Hire. Based at the Osset depot, Marcus works in the Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Technical office, planning and engineering crane lifting operations. This is his Ainscough Story.
I began my apprenticeship at Ainscough just 18 months ago after applying through the company website. The application came following a decision I made to look for a profession that offered career progression and opportunity and the role I came across at Ainscough definitely ticked those boxes.
Having achieved a BA Honours degree in Fine Art at Leeds Arts University, I went on to work in a number of roles, from catering, to opening up my own take away and even a bit of modelling on the side! However, while on the search for a profession that nurtured talent, the apprenticeship appealed and stood out to me as it required no crane experience and was open to people of all experiences unlike most.
As the crane industry is a sector that isn’t talked about in schools and higher education, it had never crossed my mind that there was a space for design skills like mine within the team. The apprenticeship has not only given me a route into a new industry I never considered before, but more importantly a foundation to launch a successful career as a Digital Engineer.
I’ve quickly been shown the ropes by the team and through working directly in the CAD and Technical office, where we plan and engineer crane lifting operations using industry standard software such as AutoCAD, AutoCAD 3D and LICCON.
Being responsible for finding and planning a lifting solution and working with the Heavy Cranes team can be a very satisfying job. Knowing you played a role in something like a bridge installation or a tower crane erection definitely gives you a buzz unlike anything I’ve been a part of in the past.
Some of my favourite parts of the job are how busy it keeps you and the constant flow of different work. There’s never a dull moment and it’s incredible to be in a profession that encourages and utilises my creativity. Another aspect I appreciate is the inclusivity culture the business has created, from monthly briefs, to area dinners and talks. These have been greatly beneficial being the new kid on the block!
As part of my apprenticeship, I have completed modules on graphical detailing, construction technology and surveying in construction. The apprenticeship is three years long in total, however I’m on track to be completed much sooner!
Looking to the future, I hope to become an integral part of the business and continue progressing here at Ainscough, with my goal set on becoming an appointed person so I can get on site and take on more responsibility! It takes years to master this job and I’m excited to keep learning from the best.
I am very lucky to be supported by such a fantastic and knowledgeable team here in Ossett.
