A good connection between the Government and phone firm BTC helped an apprentice take a step closer to his ambition of becoming a top technician.

Jahkoté Webb, 22, was one of nine Bermudians who gained full-time employment with BTC after a three-year apprenticeship.

Mr Webb said: “It was an opportunity that arose and I took it”.

He now has City and Guilds certification in copper and fibre installation.

Mr Webb, from St David’s, started out at BTC as a casual summer employee and was offered the chance to join the apprenticeship scheme, which is supported by the Ministry of Labour, Community Affairs and Sport.

He had spent five years in the UK before he returned home and was employed with BTC for the summer of 2015.

He said: “I was thinking of heading back to the UK and the opportunity came up and I couldn’t refuse it. I’ve always had an interest in technology, mainly on the practical side as I enjoy taking pride in creating things in the communications industry.”

Mr Webb added: “I want to be a well-rounded technician in copper and fibre. Although copper is being phased out, I want to be proficient in both.”

Mr Webb said his participation in the apprenticeship programme had prepared him to contribute to Bermuda’s information and communications technology industry.

He added he wanted Bermuda to have “fast and reliable fibre-optic internet for businesses and homes by further expanding and phasing out the old copper.”

Mr Webb said: “I take pride in my work. I strive to be the best and treat the customers’ premises like my own.”

Mr Webb worked with BTC instructors and senior technicians for on-the-job training.

He said: “I have done exceptionally well. I get good feedback from my managers.”

Mr Webb added: “I have improved my problem-solving, customer service skills and self discipline.”

Kent Henry, co-ordinator of the apprenticeship scheme, said Mr Webb displayed outstanding qualities. Mr Henry added: “He is quite capable. He is an intelligent young man, he is adaptable and learns quickly.”

Mr Webb said his success was also an opportunity to inspire other young Bermudians to join the industry.

He added: “By completing the programme I hope that this will allow others to take the chance and consider working in telecommunications.”

Mr Webb, a former pupil of Clearwater Middle School in St David’s, pursued his interest in information technology while at high school and college in Britain.

He was also inspired to work in the information technology industry because his mother was an IT technician.

He explained: “Following in my mother’s footsteps is something I’ve always wanted to do.”

Mr Webb was also fascinated by the impact technicians could have on society.

He explained: “Technicians are very important as we install and maintain the entire network from the main distribution frame to the home of customers.

“Developing relationships with people in different areas is a good part of why I choose to become involved in the industry.”