Tata Steel employee transforms career through UWTSD engineering degree

A Tata Steel employee from Maesteg has combined full-time work with higher education to accelerate his career progression after completing a Degree Apprenticeship in Materials Science at University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD).

At 27, Rhys Davies has progressed from a technical apprenticeship into a specialist role within Tata Steel’s Product Quality Control division while studying part-time alongside his career. His achievements have already led to a place on the company’s Technical Functions Talent Board and mentorship programme, with plans to continue developing through further training and potentially a master’s degree.

Rhys said pursuing a degree had always been an ambition.

“During my technical apprenticeship at Tata Steel, I consistently expressed an interest in gaining sponsorship for a degree programme, so I was incredibly grateful to secure support to complete the BEng in Materials Science,” he said.

His studies directly supported his day-to-day responsibilities, where understanding metallurgy plays an important role in managing systems that translate customer requirements into manufacturing data.

“I wanted to strengthen my technical understanding so I could make a greater impact in my role and improve my future career opportunities,” he said.

One of the standout aspects of the course was the independent project module, which enabled Rhys to develop new technical skills while delivering a practical tool that continues to benefit his department.

“The project pushed me to develop in a lot of new areas and the tool I created is still making a real impact within the business,” he said.

Balancing a demanding career, studies and personal commitments was one of the biggest challenges during the course.

“Time management was difficult at times, but the support from both UWTSD and Tata Steel helped me manage the workload,” he said.

Rhys believes the experience has strengthened both his professional development and personal confidence.

“The course has benefitted both me and my company, and it has already opened up new opportunities for my career progression,” he said.

Rhys plans to continue building on his success through additional professional development and future postgraduate study.

Further Information

Rebecca Davies

Executive Press and Media Relations Officer    
Corporate Communications and PR    
Email: rebecca.davies@uwtsd.ac.uk    
Phone: 07384 467071