First Team Member Completes PMBS Apprentice Programme

Pinewood MBS Lighting has announced that Billy Smith is the first team member to complete the PMBS Apprentice Programme.

Created as a way in which to directly invest in the future of the industry, the PMBS Apprentice Programme was introduced by the company to provide in-depth, hands-on instruction and tuition covering all aspects of working within the electrical department.

Having started with PMBS as an Apprentice Lighting Technician in June 2015, Billy has undergone training throughout each department within the warehouse, gaining a thorough working knowledge of the company’s vast range of specialist lighting equipment.

Along with in-house experience, Billy also completed the necessary electrical qualifications at Uxbridge College whilst adding some additional practical proficiency via secondment with a contracting electrician.

PMBS Operations Director, Toby Dare said: "Billy has built up a solid working knowledge of all aspects of the lighting department. From stands to distribution, from textiles to automated fixtures, we have been able to augment Billy’s education with in-depth training on the proper, safe operation of a broad variety equipment."

As part of the scheme, PMBS apprentices also benefit from experience working within the iconic Pinewood Studios, often including assisting in rigging stages or lighting short films. During his time with the company, Billy was able to act as part of the crew on a recent commercial filmed at the studio and, having completed the PMBS Apprentice Programme, is now embarking on a freelance career working with a group of well established Commercials Gaffers.

Dare concluded: "We're extremely proud of our apprentices. It's incredibly rewarding to be able to assist in furthering the careers of our trainees. It's also extremely satisfying to know that our apprentices have gained invaluable hands-on experience working within a 'real world' production environment. We wish Billy the very best of luck for the future."