Company: GXO
Role: Systems Administrator
I’m currently a degree apprentice with GXO, where I work as a Systems Administrator. My role gives me the opportunity to gain practical experience while studying, helping me develop a broad understanding of logistics and the systems that support day-to-day operations.
What attracted me to a career in logistics was the fast-paced environment and the opportunity to develop a wide range of transferable skills. Logistics is a sector where there are always new challenges and opportunities to learn, which is something that really appealed to me.
I chose a degree apprenticeship because it offered the chance to gain real work experience while studying towards a qualification. Balancing a full-time job alongside academic work can be challenging, but I felt it was a valuable opportunity to develop practical skills and sector knowledge at the same time as continuing my education.
Before starting the programme, I tried not to have too many expectations. One thing that did surprise me was the physical nature of some of the work when I first started in the warehouse as a picker. It was more demanding than I had anticipated, but it helped me gain a better understanding of the operation and the work carried out across the site.
One of the most exciting parts of my journey so far has been moving between different departments and learning new skills. Each new area has given me a different perspective on the business and helped me build knowledge that can be applied across a variety of roles within logistics.
The biggest skill I have developed since starting my apprenticeship is confidence. Working with lots of different people every day and regularly being pushed outside of my comfort zone has helped me grow personally and professionally. It has improved my ability to communicate with others and approach new situations with greater confidence.
One of the achievements I am most proud of is developing a stronger understanding of supply chains and the processes that keep them running effectively. As I have progressed through the programme, I have gained a much clearer understanding of how different parts of the business connect and work together.
My advice to anyone considering their options after receiving their results would be to choose the path that feels right for you. Whatever route you take, it may not be easy at the beginning, but it is important to stay confident and keep going.
For anyone thinking about a career in logistics, I would definitely recommend it. There are so many different career paths available, from transport and warehouse operations to systems, finance and leadership roles. The variety of opportunities means there is something to suit a wide range of interests and skills, making logistics an exciting sector to build a career in.