Apprenticeship Achievement: Louis Makes His Mark at MKM Building Supplies
Louis’s apprenticeship achievement at MKM Building Supplies highlights the real-world impact of work-based learning and the transformative power of apprenticeships.
At HBTC, we’re proud to celebrate the achievements of our apprentices, and Louis’s journey stands out as a particularly inspiring example. Recently completing his Level 3 Business Administration Apprenticeship with MKM Building Supplies, achieving a Pass and two Distinctions, Louis has proven just how valuable apprenticeships can be in developing both skills and confidence for a successful future.
From the moment he stepped into his role, Louis showed great potential, quickly becoming a valued member of the team and making a meaningful contribution to MKM’s finance department.
A strong start in business administration
Louis began his apprenticeship with a clear motivation: “I first heard about this position from a friend who worked here. I was motivated to apply for the apprenticeship as I had heard how successful apprenticeships are. I also wanted to learn new things and develop new skills. I was also really motivated knowing I would earn my own wage and be more independent.”
His day-to-day responsibilities include processing invoices, credits, and overhead costs, managing incoming documentation, resolving rejections from financial portals, and assisting in a wider company project to move supplier invoicing to an automated system via EDI. He also played a key role in coding hire invoices for payment.
learning on the job
Like many apprentices, Louis didn’t have clear expectations when starting out. “If I am totally honest, I had no expectations whatsoever when starting my apprenticeship. I was just hoping to develop my knowledge in business admin further and to learn some new on-the-job skills.”
Those first few weeks quickly proved positive. “My first few weeks on the apprenticeship were great. I had support all around me from my colleagues, managers, and my tutors at college. I enjoyed getting to meet new people and hearing their views on the apprenticeship.”
Throughout the programme, Louis developed a wide range of skills including communication, teamwork, adaptability, problem-solving, and initiative. These not only helped him in the workplace but also boosted his confidence, preparing him for a successful career in the world of work and giving him a strong foundation to continue growing professionally.
Louis expresses, “My apprenticeship has helped me grow professionally by allowing me to gain further knowledge on business admin and how different businesses run. It has also had a huge impact on me personally as it has made me a lot more confident when communicating with others.”
real contributions, lasting impact
Louis didn’t just learn, he delivered. One of his key contributions during the apprenticeship was creating detailed user guidelines for MKM’s Purchase Ledger Query Mailbox, a tool that will continue to support colleagues across the business.
“My main project is the one I have just finished for my apprenticeship. I created a set of guidelines on our Purchase Ledger Query Mailbox. These included screenshots of how and where to find what you need and how to tackle any email that gets sent in from suppliers.”
He was also instrumental in the OCR project, helping onboard nearly 500 suppliers to a new automated invoicing process, saving valuable time for the finance team.
“I am really proud of the guidelines I have made as they will be used by MKM for many years to come.”
And proud he should be, we couldn’t be more pleased with everything Louis has achieved. His dedication, initiative, and lasting contributions are exactly what make apprenticeship success stories like his so special.
looking ahead with confidence
Completing his apprenticeship has had a significant impact on Louis’ career direction and confidence.
“This apprenticeship has impacted my career goals and aspirations by giving me so many amazing opportunities. It was such a great opportunity for me to start my working career doing an apprenticeship as I will be 18 qualified in Business Admin.”
He now feels well-equipped for the world of work: “I feel more prepared for a career after this apprenticeship, as it has shown me what life is like when you work full-time. It has taught me that life is all about having the right balance. It has also helped me be more prepared as the knowledge and skills I have learnt during my apprenticeship will stick with me forever.”
Louis plans to continue his journey with MKM, moving into a new role focused on supplier communication and query resolution. He intends to apply all the skills he’s learnt throughout the rest of his career.
seeing potential, supporting growth
Louis’ manager, Jo, has been a strong advocate for apprenticeships. Her motivation comes from personal experience: “I was fortunate, when starting my career, to have people who invested their time, patience, and passed their knowledge onto me. I said from the very start that if I ever became a manager, I would repay what I received from them and pass it on.”
Although Louis applied directly to MKM, Jo has since worked closely with HBTC and has been impressed with the support from tutors and assessors. “It’s been great. The tutors and assessors Louis has had have been knowledgeable and supportive. I have been extremely lucky with the way Louis has approached his training. His attitude is fantastic.”
Louis quickly integrated into the team. Jo states, “There was no need to adapt. We have a good team who welcome new people, regardless of whether or not an apprentice. From day one, Louis was treated like everyone else in the team. There was just additional mentoring which I’ve done. I did meet Louis’s mum as I thought it was important she knew her young son was in a safe environment.”
His contributions have already led to real changes. “Louis has changed two processes and made them more efficient. As his knowledge grows, I’m sure this will continue.”
Jo encourages other businesses to get involved with apprenticeships: “I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend any business to employ an Apprentice and work alongside HBTC. They do require more investment, however, it is very rewarding to see their development and success.”
advice to others
When asked if he would recommend an apprenticeship, Louis said: “I would 100% recommend this apprenticeship to others as it is a great qualification to have under your belt. It also opens up your eyes to how many great opportunities there are around you to keep growing and learning.”
His message to those considering it is simple: “Go for it. Go grab it with both arms and enjoy every minute of it. It’s such a great way to better yourself as a person in a professional and personal way.”
Well done, Louis, from everyone at HBTC, we’re proud of everything you’ve achieved. Your journey is a brilliant example of how apprenticeships can launch successful careers, and we can’t wait to see what you do next!
If you’re a learner looking to start your future or a business ready to grow your team, get in touch with us on 01482 211714 Or, click the links below: We’re here to help you succeed!
You may also be interested in…
Emily Simpson
Emily is our Learner Engagement Apprentice and is involved with all things social media and content development. She is also responsible for attending career events and maintaining relationships with local schools and colleges.