Employee’s journey – Ben’s story
Case Study:
From Classroom Challenges to Craftsmanship – Ben’s Journey at Oliveti Group
Ben has been a part of the Oliveti Group family for over 17 years. His journey began at just 14, when he joined us one day a week on work experience. He quickly became a familiar face during school holidays and eventually joined us full-time at 16.
At the time, Ben was finding school increasingly difficult. Traditional learning environments didn’t suit his hands-on nature, and he was beginning to feel disengaged and frustrated. So much so that his school warned us he might be a handful.
But the moment Ben stepped into our workshop, everything changed.
From day one, he showed a strong work ethic, a clear interest in the trade, and a willingness to listen and learn. He originally hoped to become a bricklayer but soon discovered a real affinity for bench joinery. With encouragement from our team, Ben enrolled on a Level 2 Bench Joinery Apprenticeship at Leicester College, later progressing to Level 3.
Today, Ben is a highly skilled joiner and a respected member of our in-house manufacturing division. His work includes everything from bespoke furniture and one-off timber pieces to fitted cubicles and custom joinery for schools and public buildings.
His story is a fantastic reminder of what happens when talent is nurtured in the right environment—with the right support and guidance.
Interview with Ben – From Work Experience to Skilled Craftsman
1. Can you tell us a bit about how you first got involved with Oliveti Group?
I first came to Oliveti when I was 14 through a school work experience placement. I wasn’t really enjoying school at the time and was better with hands-on tasks. From the first day here, I just felt like I fitted in. I started helping out during the holidays too, and when I finished school, I was offered a full-time apprenticeship.
2. What were your first thoughts when you started your work experience here?
Honestly, I was a bit nervous, but it felt completely different from school—in a good way. The team made me feel welcome, and I loved being able to use my hands and see things being built from scratch. It was the first time I felt like I was actually good at something.
3. What made you decide to pursue an apprenticeship with Oliveti?
The support from the team really encouraged me. They saw potential in me even when I wasn’t too sure of myself. I enjoyed being in the workshop and learning on the job, so when the apprenticeship opportunity came up, it was a no-brainer.
4. How did working alongside experienced joiners help you grow?
Massively. I was lucky to be trained by joiners with decades of experience. They didn’t just show me how to do the job—they taught me how to do it properly. The way they explained things and let me get involved built up my skills and confidence quickly.
5. What’s your favourite type of project to work on now?
Hard to say really. I guess I enjoy the variety really. I do get satisfaction from the cabinetry work we do. I find it satisfying, like piecing together a jigsaw. I enjoy the bespoke work—things like fitted furniture and one-off pieces for schools or offices. You can take pride in knowing it’s not just off-the-shelf.
6. How do you think Oliveti supports young people in construction?
They’re great at spotting talent early and giving people a real shot. They don’t just hand you a broom—they let you get stuck in. You’re trained properly, supported, and made to feel part of the team from the start.
7. What advice would you give to someone who’s not enjoying school but interested in construction?
Don’t give up just because the classroom doesn’t suit you. There are other paths. I was in that same position, and an apprenticeship completely changed my outlook. If you enjoy working with your hands, go for it—get some work experience and see where it leads.
8. Do you think schools and colleges should be encouraging more students to explore careers in the trades?
Absolutely. There’s not enough awareness about the opportunities in trades. Not everyone is made for university, and we need skilled people more than ever. Schools should work more closely with companies like Oliveti to help students see what’s possible.
9. How has your confidence and outlook changed since starting at Oliveti?
It’s like night and day. When I first started, I didn’t have much direction or belief in myself. Now I’m confident in what I do, and I know I’ve built something solid—literally and career-wise.
10. Where do you see yourself going in the future at Oliveti?
I’d like to keep progressing. Maybe step into more of a mentoring role, helping train the next generation of apprentices. It’d be good to give back, the same way others helped me when I started.
Ben’s journey shows what can happen when the right opportunity meets the right mindset. He’s now an essential part of our team and a brilliant example of how skilled careers can start with a simple work experience placement.
