Wellington Place is more than just bricks and mortar, it’s a thriving community powered by people. This series of interviews aims to highlight some of the people of Wellington Place, share their inspirational stories and find out why Wellington Place is much more than just a place to work…
Interview with Devin Bhakta, 2nd/3rd Line Apprentice Engineer at Equifax, 6 Wellington Place
Devin is an Apprentice Engineer at Equifax, a global data, analytics, and technology company. Devin has been with the company since January 2016 and helps to rectify technology issues that may occur, as well as providing fresh ideas on how current processes can adapt to become more sustainable.
Tell us a little bit about what you do…
“I am an apprentice at Equifax, and I work as a 2nd/3rd Line Engineer. I am responsible for troubleshooting and remediating desktop issues, as well as network and infrastructure problems.
“I also provide innovative solutions to either resolve any outstanding problems or to improve ongoing processes to become more efficient and reliable.”
How has your job role changed since first starting as an Apprentice?
“I can’t believe how much my role has transformed since I first started at Equifax!
“When I first started the apprenticeship, I had to learn the basics of IT – I hadn’t owned a computer during my late high school and college years, so I didn’t know how to use a keyboard. Everything was completely new to me, so I had to start from scratch! It was extremely surreal to be working in a technology environment considering that I had no previous experience, but I was motivated to absorb all of the information and soon realised that I was a quick learner.
“I swiftly adapted to the office environment and now my day-to-day tasks are like second nature. My responsibilities have greatly changed due to my developed understanding and knowledge, and I’m now assured enough to contribute my own fresh ideas. I have also implemented several processes at Equifax – I created a data analytics page to show statistics for our tickets, asset management and more. I have learned some great data analytic skills, which have been extremely useful when working with any form of raw data.”
Why did you choose the apprentice career route?
“I attended college in the United States but had to drop out when I moved back to the UK alone at 19. I immediately knew that I wanted to start an apprenticeship as I’ve always preferred getting stuck into work and learning on the job, rather than learning from behind a book.
“I applied for apprenticeships in the technology sector, as I have always been fascinated with IT processes, and I was lucky enough to be offered a position at Equifax. Since starting, I’ve learnt that there’s so much more to IT than just computers, there’s also networking and infrastructure. All of these phrases were new to me, so I was so excited to gain first-hand experience as an apprentice.”
Would you recommend an apprenticeship to other people?
“I would highly recommend the apprentice route for someone starting out in an industry, especially if they prefer working and learning in a hands-on environment, rather than through academic classes. My apprenticeship has allowed me to learn and improve my skills, gaining valuable experience in a job role that couldn’t be taught if I had opted for the academic route.
“It’s not only the technology industry that I’ve gained skills in – I’ve also learned some of the softer skills such as communication and office etiquette, as well as growing in confidence.”
What’s your greatest achievement to date?
“Within my first year at Equifax, I won Employee of the Month. This was such a great achievement and really gave me a sense of pride.
“I also single-handedly managed our Leeds office, which includes managing all tickets, new starters, leavers and other incidents that may occur. I’m extremely proud of my career and the personal progress I’ve made since joining Equifax, and I can’t wait to see how my journey with the company continues to develop.”
Tell us something exciting that most people don’t know about you…
“Something that many people don’t know about me, is that I write and compose my own music! I also manage a band called The Tangerine Club, helping to promote them on social media and finding potential gigs where they can perform. We entered the band into a virtual music talent competition last year and they finished in second place! It was such an amazing achievement for all of us.”
What is your favourite thing about working at Wellington Place and why?
“The location is great, it’s extremely convenient to access, especially as I commute by train – it’s just a five-minute walk to the office. It is also amazing to see new buildings come to life every year, as well as fresh and familiar faces walking around the development.”
Which community events do you take part in at Wellington Place and why?
“The food events in summer are amazing! The street food vendors are incredible and it’s so nice to be able to spend your lunch break in a new environment and enjoy new experiences.”
What three words sum up Wellington Place to you?
Innovative – The complex is always expanding, not only with new buildings but also fresh ideas and events.
Special – Even though COVID-19 has stopped everyone getting involved in real-life events, Wellington Place has made sure that everyone can still meet virtually for all kinds of experiences.
Exciting – There is always something going on, and there are plenty of people to interact with.
Click here to visit the Equifax website.
Thanks to Devin for taking part in the interview. If you would like to tell your story or wish to nominate someone to take part in the People of Wellington Place series please email info@wellingtonplace.co.uk
