Koby Conway’s journey into the nuclear sector is a story of passion, mentorship, and opportunities that have shaped him into a skilled and committed Mechanical Fitter. What started as a fascination with his father’s work in the nuclear sector has blossomed into a rewarding and dynamic career. Now, as a full-time Mechanical Fitter, Koby’s career continues to evolve, propelled by the strong foundations laid through his apprenticeship and hands-on experiences in the sector.

Koby's interest in nuclear began at an early age, inspired by his father, an engineer in the sector. "Growing up, my dad's work in the nuclear sector fascinated me," Koby recalls. "I was always curious about what he did, and it was a part of my world." This curiosity was nurtured during a school project sponsored by Sellafield, where students were asked to write about engineering. Koby chose to write about his dad’s work and his experiences in the nuclear sector. "From that project, I was selected, along with a few others, for a site tour around Sellafield. I remember being amazed by the scale of the equipment and how many people worked together with a shared goal. It was a turning point for me—I knew then that my future was in nuclear."

When Koby first entered the sector, his expectations were shaped by his site tour and conversations with his father. "I expected to work in a team with people who were all focused on solving complex engineering problems to ensure safety and efficiency," he says. What surprised him, however, was the inclusive culture and the support network available to help him navigate challenges. "Being part of a team with so many experienced and knowledgeable people was initially daunting," he admits. "But as I realized how much I could learn from them and how supportive they were, it became a solid foundation for my growth as a Mechanical Craft Fitter."

Koby also quickly learned how critically important safety was within the nuclear sector. "Safety is paramount. It’s something everyone is taught as soon as they join, and that focus creates a strong safety culture."

Koby's career path has been shaped by a combination of hands-on learning and academic achievements. Starting at the age of 16, Koby embarked on his apprenticeship, gaining practical experience while studying for qualifications. "I was involved in a steam system rebuild, where I got hands-on with valves and their operations. I also attended extensive courses on the subject," Koby shares. "It was a huge learning experience."

One of his proudest achievements was introducing a new communication solution within the Delivering Excellence team. "I proposed a better communication system between lab operators and the engineering team to reduce downtime during shutdowns," Koby explains. This innovation allowed for smoother operations and improved collaboration across different teams in the sector.

As Koby advanced in his career, he began taking on more responsibility. "Now, I’m working towards a role where I’m responsible for disconnecting the energy source from equipment or processes being worked on," he says. "The margin for error is very small, and it’s a huge responsibility. But this challenge has allowed me to work on more complex systems and grow my engineering knowledge."

Looking back, Koby reflects on how rewarding his journey has been, particularly in terms of academic growth. "Thanks to the support of my company, I’ve been able to complete my Level 3 Apprenticeship, a Technical Certificate, and a Higher National Certificate. Now, I’m enrolled in a Degree Apprenticeship scheme working towards my BEng," he says. "These qualifications have equipped me with the knowledge to apply engineering principles directly in the workplace, improving fault-finding techniques and developing new solutions."

When asked what advice he would give to someone considering a career in the nuclear sector, Koby has clear recommendations. "The nuclear sector is the future. It’s a field where new technologies are constantly advancing, and the opportunities are endless," he says. "It provides a variety of career paths and opportunities for personal development. Whether it's in environmental restoration or nuclear medicine, the impact your work can have is incredibly rewarding."

Koby is passionate about encouraging others to explore careers in nuclear, and he believes there are several initiatives that could help increase engagement. "We need awareness programmes that highlight the importance of nuclear in tackling climate change and ensuring energy security," he suggests. "There should also be more school engagement, helping students understand the vast opportunities the nuclear sector offers from an early age."

He also advocates for continued investment in apprenticeship schemes, noting that "the 'earn while you learn' model is a great way to attract students." In addition, Koby believes that collaborations with universities can play a crucial role in shaping the future workforce. "Having nuclear companies collaborate with universities to create tailored programs would help students develop the specific skills needed in the sector."

One initiative that had a profound impact on Koby was the opportunity for a site tour during his school years. "I was one of the few who had the chance to visit a nuclear site," he says. "If more students had access to such opportunities, it would spark greater interest in the sector. Although I understand the security concerns, virtual tours could be a great alternative—controlled content, but still a way to get the message across."

As Koby continues his journey in the nuclear sector, he is deeply committed to shaping its future. "The nuclear sector has had a profound impact on me, helping shape who I am today," he reflects. "It has allowed my interests and ambitions to grow, and I am now fully committed to contributing to the future of this sector. I can’t wait to see what the next chapter brings."

Koby Conway’s career is a testament to the power of early inspiration, continuous learning, and the commitment to making a difference in the world. From his first tour of Sellafield to his current role as a Mechanical Craft Fitter, Koby has embraced every challenge and opportunity the nuclear sector has offered. With new technologies on the horizon and a growing need for skilled professionals, Koby’s story serves as an inspiration for the next generation of nuclear talent.