ceda and C&C Catering Engineers are celebrating the success of Damion Russel who has become the first person to complete the Commercial Catering Equipment Technician Apprenticeship. Despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, Damion’s unwavering determination and commitment to his work have led to this significant achievement.

Damion embarked on his journey toward becoming a qualified catering equipment technician with a different company just before the pandemic’s onset. Unfortunately, the global health crisis disrupted his training and professional growth. Upon returning to work after a period of furlough, Damion recognized that he needed an environment where he could continue learning and developing his skills.

Driven by his ambition and a desire to receive the best training possible, Damion decided to join the engineering team at C&C Catering Engineers, as part of their London team. The decision was fueled by the company’s reputation for providing the ideal conditions and top-notch engineering expertise necessary for nurturing aspiring professionals like Damion.

Throughout his time at C&C Catering Engineers, Damion has consistently demonstrated his dedication and aptitude as an engineer. Now, he is out in the field, serving clients in London and the Home Counties, and consistently delivering exceptional work. His contributions have made him an invaluable member of the C&C team.

Damion’s journey has been marked by resilience, determination, and a relentless pursuit of success despite the hurdles posed by the pandemic. The entire team at C&C Catering Engineers, along with Damion himself, is now reaping the rewards of his hard work and dedication.

“We are immensely proud of Damion’s achievement and his unwavering commitment to his career,” said Greg Cairns, Senior Engineer – South at C&C Catering Engineers. “He has not only demonstrated remarkable resilience but has also showcased his exceptional engineering skills, which have earned him a well-deserved place within our team. Damion’s success is a testament to what can be accomplished with determination and the right support system.”

Newly qualified Damion said “I was unfortunate to commence the apprenticeship just prior to the Covid Pandemic, which meant I faced many challenges throughout my training period. It was difficult to get continuity from both work and training during this period. Even though at times it seemed like the light at the end of the tunnel seemed to be getting smaller, I was determined to get it over the line.

I feel proud as I am one of five that have passed this scheme, out of fifteen that started, so I am now pleased that I persisted through the difficult periods. The journey has taught me a lot about applying myself to difficult situations and about how with a bit of luck and hard work you can succeed, and I feel this will help me to become a knowledgeable and rounded engineer in the future. “

ceda remains committed to fostering the growth and development of talented individuals like Damion, ensuring that they have the resources and expertise needed to excel in the field of commercial catering equipment maintenance.

For more information about the Commercial Catering Equipment Technician Apprenticeship please contact Peter Kay of ceda at peterkay@ceda.co.uk or on 07770 848798.