Howdens Shines a Light on Apprentice Success Stories

Howdens, the UK’s number one trade kitchen supplier, is celebrating apprentices across its teams this National Apprenticeship Week. James Baker, Apprenticeship Manager at Howdens said; “National Apprenticeship Week gives us a chance to recognise and celebrate the incredible impact our apprentices have at Howdens. Many of our staff,  more than one in ten, started their careers with us as apprentices. They are a huge part of what makes our business successful. We’re proud to give apprentices the skills, support, and opportunities they need to grow, and it’s fantastic to see so many choosing to develop their careers with us.”

Harrison Low, Chartered Management Degree Apprentice (Operations, Manufacturing) at Howden Manufacturing in East Yorkshire.

At 17, Harrison knew the traditional university route wasn’t for him. Many degree apprenticeships were based in major cities, but he found the CMDA at Howdens right on his doorstep in East Yorkshire. Harrison said: “I went from being the student who was scared to put their hand up in class to presenting to an operations board within a year.” When Harrison was invited back to his Sixth Form careers day, he saw it as a chance to make a difference. Since then, he’s spoken to different year groups about degree apprenticeships, the application process, and what life at Howdens is really like.

Cade Noon, team member at Howden Manufacturing in East Yorkshire.

Before joining Howdens in 2021, Cade Noon explored several career paths. In 2021, she began an engineering apprenticeship with Howdens, which she has now proudly completed. Cade said, “I strip and rebuild tools, fix faults, and replace components. I also machine spare parts using lathes and milling machines. No two days are the same, which keeps the role exciting.” She’s passionate about inspiring the next generation, regularly visiting schools and speaking with students about careers in engineering and apprenticeships. Cade also supports Women in Engineering events. “I want to show girls there’s absolutely a place for them in engineering,” she says. “It may be male‑dominated, but that doesn’t mean women can’t succeed.” 

Fabian Vidal, Demand Planner at Howdens and a Supply Chain Management degree apprentice at Howden Manufacturing in East Yorkshire.

Fabian joined Howdens straight from college as a Junior Demand Planner. Starting with no experience, Fabian was trained and quickly progressed into a key forecasting role. He began his Supply Chain Management degree in October 2023 and is now in his final year, balancing full-time responsibility with six hours of off-the-job learning each week. “Studying alongside real responsibility at work has boosted my confidence and clarified where I want my career to go,” Fabian says. Looking ahead, he hopes to move across different areas of the supply chain and eventually step into a management role. 

Corey Stranaghan - Warehouse Apprentice at Howdens Belfast Duncrue depot

Before joining Howdens, Corey gained hands-on experience working with his uncle in a carpet-fitting business. Looking for a new challenge, he joined Howdens as an apprentice, where his role helps keep the warehouse running smoothly, from preparing orders to managing stock and maintaining a safe, organised space. Since 2022, apprenticeships have played an important role in supporting our growth in Northern Ireland. Corey’s story highlights the positive impact our apprentices are making as we continue to build our business in the region. 

Ellie Lamont, Apprentice Business Developer/Administrator at Howdens Haslingden depot

Before joining Howdens in May 2025, Ellie was looking for more responsibility and the chance to build a long-term career. She started her apprenticeship at just 19. Ellie’s days involve supporting customers at the trade counter, making calls, sending emails, and coordinating orders with other depots. With guidance from her depot managers, she’s building confidence, skills, and knowledge across the business. “Joining Howdens has genuinely been one of the best decisions I’ve made,” Ellie says. 

To find out more about apprenticeships at Howdens, visit: www.careers.howdens.com

Source : Howdens

Images : Howdens

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