Meet the future of tech: HPE’s Early careers in action

[Matt_Nicholls]

Meet the future of tech: HPE’s Early careers in action

Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week 2025 and our apprentices’ journey so far

HPE is a thriving hub of early careers colleagues. With interns, apprentices, graduates and T-Level students, we love to celebrate and support those pursuing a career in the tech industry.

Over the past six years, HPE has hired more than 80 apprentices across the business, working in technical roles such as software engineering and consultancy as well as finance, marketing and HR. This diverse mix offers apprentices a genuine experience of life within a large tech company, providing them with the abilities and skills to kickstart their career.

Watch the video about T-levels here 

Watch the video about Apprentices here 

Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week 2025

National Apprenticeship Week 2025 was a great chance to recognise and encourage our apprentices, with a different theme each day and a range of activities.

The week focused on ‘Skills for Life’, shone a spotlight on supportive employers, asked apprentices to shout about their journey so far and highlighted T Levels. These two year qualifications are equivalent to three A-levels, and see students aged 16 to 19 take on knowledge-based learning at school or college alongside on-the-job experience through industry placements. Here at HPE, our T Level students study Business at Reading College, with their workplace training providing valuable opportunities for them.

Student Fraser explained why T Levels were an attractive option, rather than a B.Tech or A Level route, “I chose T Levels for the opportunity to do a work placement in the sector of my decision. We’ve all learnt so much so far.” T Levels offer a head-start for a career in any chosen field, helping students develop real-world skills and obtain industry knowledge right at the start of their career. However, the first steps into a workplace as teenagers can be daunting, as T Level student Jayon explained, “I was really nervous on my first day, but the relaxed style eased me in, and it’s been relaxed ever since!”

Learning on the job

Apprenticeships at HPE aren’t just about learning the ropes – they’re about making a real impact from day one. The programme is packed with ambitious individuals eager to shape the future, and they are encouraged to dive into projects that make a difference.

Life as an apprentice includes opportunities to get involved in the day to day running of the business, as well as tasks specific to the apprentice’s job role alongside a day of university work.

Bahvika Mistry, Digital Presales Apprentice shared that, “One of my proudest moments was contributing to a key project where my input directly impacted its success. Seeing

my ideas take shape and positively influence the project gave me a great sense of achievement and confidence.”

Ruby Harris, UK SMB Territory Account Manager Apprentice explained how, “Every day differs. Our main focus is outreach, so I speak to our partners a lot, whether that’s visiting their offices or on calls.”

More than just work

Beyond technical skills, apprentices build networks, develop leadership qualities and gain confidence in a corporate environment. They also are encouraged to get involved in every aspect of company life, including trips, volunteering and fundraising events.

Ruby organised a partner football tournament for charity with over 100 of our partners and distributors participating. She described the, “Massive learning curve as an apprentice, and an opportunity I didn’t think I’d get.”

Cloud Software Engineer Apprentice Jasmine Smith described the wealth of personal development opportunities she’s been given, including, “Volunteering painting walls for our site charity, as well as attending Concord’s 40th anniversary; we got to learn about the history of the plane and walk onto it as well.”

“I had the opportunity to visit the Red Bull factory in Milton Keynes,” Finance Apprentice Neha Patel explained, “Which was really different to my role. I then gave a presentation to the wider finance team about how our products are used there.”

A stepping stone to success

Apprenticeships provide a vital foundation, with massive opportunities for each apprentice. George Wood, Technical Sales Apprentice talked about his journey. “Six years ago, I began as an apprentice with no idea where the road would take me. Fast forward to today I have had many highlights and am proud of what I have achieved so far.”

Neha Patel has also had some great achievements, “As a Finance Apprentice, I am incredibly proud of my journey so far, especially achieving strong results in my management accounting exam. I have also learnt the value of consistency, resilience, and time management, which is so important as an apprentice. I look forward to continuing working on these skills and gaining my qualification!”

HPE apprenticeships aren’t just a training programme, they’re a launchpad. Many apprentices transition into full-time roles, using their experience to propel their careers forward. With real-world challenges, expert mentorship and a supportive environment, these apprentices are shaping the future of tech. Matt Nichols, UKIMEA Early Careers Programme Manager started as an apprentice at HPE, and now looks after all early careers colleagues. “The word I would use to summarise my apprenticeship journey

would be ‘life-changing’. I'm so fortunate to have the opportunity to join such a great organisation, and now as I look back, the opportunities I've had have led me to where I am today. Being the head of early careers is an amazing opportunity for me. I'm very passionate about the role and the opportunities that we enable for young people in our industry.”

Ready to take the next step in your journey with HPE?
Join our Talent Community to stay informed about relevant opportunities and be considered for future roles that match your interests.

If you're a student or just starting out, explore graduate, intern, and apprentice roles on our Early Careers Student Page.

You can also get a head start with our free, self-paced Virtual Job Experience

Matthew Nicholls
Hewlett Packard Enterprise

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