As we reflect of Career’s Week, we shine a spotlight on Matt Riddell

Not every engineering career begins in a lecture hall. For Matt Riddell, it started on the shop floor at iconsys, learning how complex systems are built while working alongside experienced engineers.

When Matt joined the company as an apprentice, he quickly developed practical skills by wiring panels and supporting project teams on live projects. That hands-on experience gave him a valuable understanding of how engineering designs translate into real systems, knowledge that continues to shape his approach to engineering today.

Over time, Matt progressed into hardware design, developing expertise in Eplan and becoming a key contributor to complex automation projects. Today he is one of iconsys’ respected Hardware Design Engineers, known for his methodical approach to problem solving and his ability to tackle intricate technical challenges.

Alongside his technical work, Matt also supports the development of future engineers. He regularly mentors apprentices and junior colleagues, helping them build confidence and develop practical skills within the same supportive environment that helped him grow.

Matt continues to invest in his own development as well. Alongside his role at iconsys, he is currently studying for a Higher National Diploma (HND) while completing leadership and management modules to support the next stage of his career.

Recently, Matt helped deliver a robotics session for 40 pupils from four local schools, giving students the opportunity to experiment with robotics and automation technology while learning more about careers in engineering.

For many pupils, meeting an engineer who began as an apprentice and now designs complex automation systems makes the career path feel both real and achievable.

Matt’s journey highlights an important message: engineering careers don’t follow just one route. With the right opportunities, guidance and real-world experience, apprenticeships can provide a powerful pathway into the profession.