Transdev names Sam Cockburn as Harrogate engineering head

Transdev Blazefield has promoted former apprentice Sam Cockburn, 38, to the position of Engineering Manager at its Starbeck depot in Harrogate.

Mr Cockburn began his career in the bus industry in July 2001 at the same depot as an engineering apprentice and has remained there ever since, except for a short period with a local coach operator. He has progressively held the roles of Shift Fitter, MoT Inspector and Acting Supervisor over that period, and in January gained his Transport Manager CPC qualification. 

When combined, those skills and experiences made him “the ideal candidate to lead the Harrogate engineering team,” says the operator. 

As National Apprenticeship Week takes place between 7-13 February, Mr Cockburn has encouraged other people to consider engineering as a career path. “My experience shows how it is possible to build a great career with Transdev,” he says. “I started as an apprentice and now I am Engineering Manager, responsible for providing safe and reliable buses for the community in my home town. 

“I had contacted 27 potential employers without success when my mother, who was an accountant with the bus company at that time, suggested to it that it could offer apprenticeships. Thankfully, it liked the idea, and in July 2001 I became one of the first two apprentice engineers.” 

Adds Transdev Blazefield Operations Director Vito Pizzuti: “Throughout his career so far with us, Sam Cockburn has shown the dedication and commitment to become a skilled leader. His eye for detail and focus on safety has taken him from apprentice to manager, and he has a bright future to look forward to in the years ahead.”