Case Study: Euan Finlow – Quality Apprentice at Parker Hannifin
Client
Parker Hannifin
Skills
Apprenticeship/Level 2 Lean Manufacturing
When Euan Finlow began exploring apprenticeship opportunities, he was drawn to roles that offered variety, hands-on experience, and room to grow. Although he had no background in quality or manufacturing, his research into Parker Hannifin quickly sparked his interest. The scale of the company and the diversity of its products made the Quality Apprentice role stand out as something worth pursuing.
Euan joined Parker Hannifin as a Quality Apprentice, working towards his Level 2 Lean Manufacturing qualification. The transition into full-time work was a significant step, but one he embraced with enthusiasm. He quickly discovered that the role allowed him to build confidence, develop practical skills, and understand how different teams across manufacturing work together.
Facing Challenges and Finding Solutions
Early in his apprenticeship, Euan encountered several technical challenges, including a recurring issue with components being rejected due to potted-off endcaps. Working alongside his team, he helped identify the cause and contributed to the solution: introducing a new jig to hold endcaps securely during the oven process. It was a valuable early experience in structured problem-solving and teamwork.
He has also taken on additional responsibilities as his confidence has grown. These now include testing returned valves that customers report as faulty and acting as a quality representative for one of the shop-floor sections. These tasks have given him greater ownership and a deeper understanding of quality processes.
Developing Skills and Independence
Throughout his apprenticeship, Euan has developed strong communication skills and learned how to adapt his approach depending on the situation and the people he’s working with. Projects such as his problem-solving assignment and 5S improvement work have helped him think more critically and independently. The 5S project, in particular, encouraged him to consider how machine layouts and processes can be improved to better support operators.
These experiences, along with the day-to-day realities of full-time work, have prepared him for future opportunities within the business. He now feels comfortable in a range of scenarios and confident in handling challenges as they arise.
A Day in the Life
Euan’s days begin with a morning meeting alongside the Quality and TSG teams to discuss issues, allocate claims, and plan priorities. Much of his time is spent on the shop floor monitoring processes, supporting operators, and addressing any quality concerns. He also works on tasks and projects at his desk, balancing hands-on activity with administrative responsibilities. The variety of work keeps each day engaging, and the mix of practical and desk-based tasks is one of the things he enjoys most.
His team and manager play a key role in his development by involving him in a wide range of tasks, trusting him with responsibilities, and ensuring he has time set aside for training and coursework.
Celebrating Achievements
One of Euan’s proudest moments during his apprenticeship was receiving a Star Award for his involvement in a STEM event. Alongside other apprentices, he helped demonstrate filtration processes and share insights about Parker Hannifin’s products with school students aged 10–14. The event ran over three days, and Euan’s contribution across two of them made a strong impression.
That commitment to going above and beyond is reflected in his final result: Euan has now successfully completed his Level 2 Lean Manufacturing apprenticeship, achieving a Distinction — a testament to the hard work, dedication, and enthusiasm he has brought to every aspect of his role.
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on his journey, Euan feels proud of what he has accomplished and excited about what lies ahead. Completing his apprenticeship with a Distinction is a milestone he has worked hard to earn, and it marks the beginning of the next chapter in his career. With growing experience, new responsibilities, and the support of his team, he has built a strong foundation for a future in quality.
For anyone considering a similar path, Euan’s message is clear: a quality apprenticeship offers variety, meaningful challenges, and the chance to gain valuable skills while working with a wide range of people — and with the right attitude, it can take you further than you might expect.
