From walking into Blackhall and hand‑delivering a CV, to leading cost‑saving engineering projects. This is the journey of an apprentice who became a Valvologist®.
At Blackhall, engineering careers are not simply jobs, they are journeys built on ownership, mentorship, and long-term impact.
Some engineers arrive through traditional routes. Others carve out their own path. For Kian, seeing his dad’s colleagues at work from a young age sparked a passion to choose engineering “I was in awe of how they created products on a computer, I thought it was so cool, I wanted to be able to do that.”
Choosing hands‑on experience over university shaped a career built on curiosity and determination. While many peers prepared for university, Kian knew he wanted something different, “I wanted to get straight into work after my A‑levels. You can do an engineering degree, but you don’t get much hands‑on experience, I feel like I’ve learnt more here (at Blackhall), than I have on my actual apprenticeship.”
That decision reflects a wider shift in modern engineering, where real-world problem solving and accountability accelerate development far beyond theory alone.
Blackhall wasn’t advertising apprenticeships at the time, but that didn’t stop him. After researching the company, Kian put together a CV, made a presentation, and delivered them in person, “I remember ringing the doorbell and asking for Aadil and the next day he rang and invited me for an interview.”
When someone as determined and enthusiastic as Kian wanted to work for Blackhall, the opportunity was created. At Blackhall, initiative is recognised and potential is invested in.
Early Challenges and Growth
Once Kian was hired, it was full steam ahead. Blackhall welcomed him in with support and guidance. “I’d never used the software’s before… the first few weeks were self‑study with support from Aadil where and when possible. Being thrown in straight away helped me the most.” That early challenge became the foundation for rapid growth. Responsibility from day one is part of the Blackhall way, but never without mentorship.
With four days at Blackhall and one day at college, the experience was immersive, Kian explained “It’s different every day, that’s what keeps me going. We’re a bespoke valve company, so the design work is always different, not just the same valve going out all the time.” The variety and complexity of the projects gave him room to learn, experiment, and contribute meaningfully.
Designing bespoke valve solutions means every project demands critical thinking, precision, and accountability. These are qualities that define a Valvologist®.
Making an Impact.
Kian reflected on his five years at Blackhall and shared his proudest achievement so far: redesigning a handwheel and recommending a new supplier. His solution reduced material usage by 75%, delivering significant cost savings and cutting an estimated 5 tonnes of CO₂ emissions each year.
“I felt like I was involved in a really big project, it made me feel good. Getting praise from James (Blackhall) himself is an accomplishment.”
At Blackhall, innovation is not theoretical. It translates into measurable commercial and environmental impact.
Contributions like this directly support our long-term sustainability ambitions and carbon reduction commitments.
For an apprentice to influence material efficiency and supply chain optimisation demonstrates the trust placed in our engineers, regardless of seniority.
The People Behind the Progress
What made the biggest difference? The people. “They supported me a lot during my studies. Aadil would always ask me how I’m doing and would want to see my college work. I had a folder saved on the system and I knew Aadil went through it because he’d always tell me. It made me feel more confident knowing I wasn’t on my own.”
At Blackhall, mentorship is not a formal programme. It is embedded in the day-to-day culture.
With support from the Company, Kian progressed beyond the initial apprenticeship into a full time role and when he expressed he wanted to progress onto a degree the Company was happy to invest, “I’m incredibly grateful for their support.” A true representation of the supportive culture embedded at Blackhall.
Why Blackhall
“It’s a family-orientated company where people genuinely know and sport each other, and that created strong working relationships across the business”
“I feel like I speak to James (Blackhall) on a personal level. He asks about your weekend and supports you in every way.”
Leadership accessibility is a cornerstone of Blackhall’s culture. Engineering decisions are made collaboratively, and every voice is valued.
From Apprentice to Valvologist®
A journey that began by ringing the doorbell has evolved into a career defined by purpose, growth, and impact.
From apprentice to Valvologist, but still just getting started.
Kian’s story is not an exception at Blackhall. It is a reflection of what happens when engineering talent is nurtured, challenged, and trusted. As we continue to invest in the next generation of Valvologists®, we remain committed to building careers that are as enduring as the valves we design.
Interested in starting your own journey into Valvology®? Explore careers at Blackhall Engineering.
