Apprenticeships help Burgess Electrical Services invest in the next generation of electricians
Woody Long, Project Director at Burgess Electrical Services, says apprenticeships are central to the company’s long-term growth and success. Aylesbury-based Burgess Electrical Services (BES) was established in 2016 by Jonny Burgess, with a mission to deliver high-quality commercial and industrial electrical installations across the UK.
Now in its tenth year, the family-run company employs more than 30 staff. As the business continues to grow, it remains committed to re-investing in the sector through apprenticeships.
BES began working with Milton Keynes College several years ago and currently has four staff on electrical apprenticeships. One of them, Jay Bamford, was recently awarded the title of Electrical Contracting News’ Apprentice of the Year 2025.
Woody Long, Project Director at BES, oversees the company’s apprentices. Reflecting on the company’s approach to recruitment and training, he explains:
“Apprenticeships are the future of the company, as I see it. With some of our experienced electricians moving into project management roles and away from practical work on site, we need young people entering the industry to fill these roles. Having apprentices is incredibly valuable, as they learn real on-the-job skills directly from those with years of expertise.
We put a lot of effort into recruiting the right people, and then we teach them the “BES Way”. Their appearance, their attitude, their work ethic; it all contributes to our reputation, and without them, we simply could not grow.”
Speaking about Jay’s recent achievement, Woody adds, “There was no one more deserving. The opportunities are there for him to keep developing and progressing within the company. Two of our former apprentices are now Project Managers. The company is built on people who believe in what we do. The sky really is the limit.”
Amy Burgess, Business Director at BES, adds, “We also have apprentices who stay with us, qualify, and then move on, and that is not a problem. Many have gone on to set up their own businesses and now work for us as subcontractors. It is great to see them feel confident enough to take that step.”
On the experience of working with MK College, Woody says, “It’s a good relationship on both sides. The support is really good. They are organised and proactive about booking site visits, and it really seems like the apprentices are well looked after. They are clearly keen to get people qualified and want to see it all the way through.”
When asked what advice he would give other employers thinking of taking on apprentices, Woody says, “A lot of companies worry about the responsibility of taking on an apprentice, keeping them busy and covering their wages. But as employers, we need to take that risk; the future of the industry depends on giving young people a chance. If you are thinking about it, you really just need to go for it.”