Substation Engineer

From Apprentice to Substation Engineer: Helping power London's future

Meet Ryan one of our Substation Engineers in London.

Ten years ago, I joined National Grid as an apprentice. At the time, I wasn't completely sure where my career would take me, but I knew I wanted to learn, develop new skills and build a long-term future in engineering. Today, I'm a Substation Engineer in our London Central team, helping to keep the electricity network running safely and reliably across the capital.

While the role is about keeping the lights on today, it's also about helping build the energy system that will power tomorrow. One of the things I love most about my role is knowing that the work we do has a real impact on people's lives.

Powering a City

As a Substation Engineer, I work across a number of sites around London, creating safety documents, risk assessments and work packs that allow engineers to safely work on equipment that forms part of the electricity transmission network. With safety at the heart of everything we do, my role helps ensure critical maintenance and engineering work can be carried out safely and efficiently.

People often don't realise just how important substations are.

The simplest way I can describe it is this: they power everything. The network we work on helps supply electricity to homes, schools, hospitals, workplaces and transport infrastructure across London. When you think about how much society depends on electricity, it's a great feeling knowing that you play a small part in keeping that system running.

Supporting the Journey to Net Zero

Another aspect of my role that I'm proud of is supporting the transition to a greener energy future.

As the country moves away from fossil fuels and increasingly relies on renewable sources such as wind, solar and battery storage, the transmission network becomes even more important. And it’s the work we do today that helps make it possible to connect those technologies and support the UK's net zero ambitions.

For me, that's a real positive. It's exciting to be part of an industry that's helping create a more sustainable future while continuing to provide reliable electricity for millions of people.

My Career Journey

One of the reasons I'm passionate about encouraging people to consider a career at National Grid is because I've experienced the opportunities firsthand.

I started as an apprentice ten years ago. After completing my apprenticeship, I progressed into a Substation Project Lead role before moving into my current position as a Substation Engineer. Looking ahead, I'd like to continue developing into commissioning roles and keep building my experience.

What I've always felt is that National Grid genuinely invests in its people. Because the work we do is highly specialised, there's a real commitment to training, development and helping people progress. When you're ready for your next challenge, there are opportunities available and managers will support you in achieving your goals.

Why Apprenticeships Matter

If you're approaching the end of school or college and you're not sure whether university is the right route for you, I'd strongly encourage you to look at apprenticeships.

When I joined, I'd never worked with tools before. I'd never worked on substation equipment and didn't have hands-on engineering experience. What mattered wasn't what I already knew, but my willingness to learn. National Grid provided the training, support and opportunities I needed to develop.

The biggest qualities I think someone needs are curiosity, resilience and an open mind. There will always be challenges and not every problem has an obvious solution. Sometimes you need to take a step back, look at things differently and learn from the experienced people around you. If you're willing to learn and work hard, the support is there to help you succeed.

Engineering Is for Everyone

I also think it's important to challenge some of the outdated perceptions people may have about engineering careers and who can be an engineer.

I believe women absolutely belong in this industry. Within our team we have female engineers and apprentices, and across the wider business there are women working in technical roles ranging from Substation Engineers through to commissioning specialists and beyond.

My experience is that people are welcomed and valued for what they contribute, not for who they are. If you're willing to learn, develop your skills and put the effort in, there's no reason you can't build a successful career here.

For any woman, (or anyone) considering a career in engineering, my advice would be simple: don't let outdated stereotypes put you off. There are fantastic opportunities available, supportive teams around you, and a rewarding career waiting if you're prepared to take that first step.

More Than Just the Job

One of the biggest reasons I've stayed with National Grid is the people. Throughout my career I've worked with supportive colleagues and managers who have always been willing to help. I've moved through different teams and have consistently felt welcomed and encouraged to develop.

The work-life balance is another major benefit. Depending on your role, there are flexible working arrangements and shift patterns that can make it easier to balance work with family life, appointments and personal commitments. For me, it's important that when I finish work, I can switch off and focus on life outside of my job.

Helping the Next Generation

Perhaps the most rewarding part of my role today is supporting others as they begin their own careers.

Having started as an apprentice myself, I understand the challenges that come with learning a new industry and developing confidence. That's why I spend time mentoring apprentices and helping newer members of the team. Whether it's supporting someone with their development records or sharing lessons I've learnt along the way, it's something I genuinely enjoy.

If I had to describe my superpower, it would be mentoring the next generation of talent.

Could This Be Your Career?

Whether you're an experienced electrical engineer looking for your next challenge working on nationally significant infrastructure, a woman exploring a future in engineering, or someone considering an apprenticeship as an alternative route to university, I'd encourage you to take a closer look at a career with National Grid.

You'll find meaningful work, structured development, supportive colleagues, clear progression routes and the opportunity to help build the energy system of the future, just like I have.

My own journey started with an apprenticeship, but today, I'm helping to power one of the world's busiest cities, supporting the transition to net zero and helping develop the engineers who will shape the future of our industry.

And for me, that's what makes this career so rewarding.