A WEEK IN THE LIFE OF AN APPRENTICE: AARON AT RUSHLIFT
Apprentices are not only learning a trade, they are building skills, confidence and technical expertise that will keep our industry moving for decades to come.
One of those apprentices is Aaron, whose recent week perfectly captures the variety, responsibility and hands-on learning that comes with life at Rushlift. All work was completed under the close supervision of a dedicated mentor, ensuring the highest standards of safety, quality and professional development.
Day 1: Precision and Problem Solving
The week began with a complex task on an Aisle Master. Aaron removed both masts to allow the replacement of the secondary lift rams after scoring was found on the chroming of the ram. Mast work demands accuracy, patience and a strong understanding of hydraulics, a challenging but invaluable learning opportunity.
Day 2: Understanding Wear and Failure
On day two, attention turned to a Doosan D70. Aaron removed the mast and then stripped out the inner channel after over-shimmed rollers had caused damage to the inside of the channel. Diagnosing the root cause of failures like this is a critical skill for any engineer and highlights how small tolerances can have major consequences.
Day 3: Preparing for Repair
With the fault identified, day three focused on preparation. Aaron carefully palletised the damaged inner channel from the Doosan D70, ensuring it was safely packaged and ready to be sent away for specialist repair. It’s a reminder that good engineering doesn’t stop at the spanner, logistics and attention to detail matter too.
Day 4: Engine Expertise
Day four brought a more technically demanding job of the week, a head gasket replacement. After the original gasket cracked and allowed coolant to contaminate the engine oil, Aaron stripped the engine down, removed the head and replaced the gasket. This kind of task builds deep technical understanding and confidence, under expert supervision.
Day 5: Routine Maintenance Done Right
The week concluded with a full service on a Doosan D30S-9, replacing oils and filters. While routine servicing might seem straightforward, it is the backbone of fleet reliability and a vital skill for any engineer working in the MHE sector.
Aaron’s week is a powerful example of why apprentices are so important to Rushlift. They bring enthusiasm, fresh thinking and a willingness to learn, while gaining real-world experience across a wide range of equipment and challenges. By investing time, mentoring and trust in our apprentices, we are investing in the long-term strength of our business and the wider materials handling industry.
During Apprenticeship Week, we’re proud to celebrate apprentices like Aaron and their mentors, learning, contributing and growing every day. They are not just the future of Rushlift, they are the future of MHE.