Generation Logistics case study: Samantha Barnett

Officially launched to the public yesterday (10 August 2022), the campaign will be promoted at the West Midlands jobs and skills showcase this weekend (12-13 August 2022).

In the coming months, we will be featuring case studies of young people who are pursuing successful careers in the logistics industry.

Name and profession

• Full name: Samantha Barnett
• Preferred name: Sam
• Amazon Alias: Sammy
• Job Title: Engineering Technician Apprentice
• Location: Gateshead fulfilment centre

Tell us about your Amazon career journey

I first started as an associate at the Durham fulfilment centre working in both picking and packing, I became a PG (process guide) after three months and continued in this role for the year in the same department. I applied for the apprenticeship while working as a PG and got a place on the apprenticeship a year after starting with Amazon.

Tell us about your team and your current role

I’m currently studying a L3 engineering technician apprenticeship with one-year study in Coventry before coming back to site in September to continue the next three years of my learning. We have a selection of modules we study but also have access to different development opportunities and support. The excitement comes with the learning, the new friendships and ability to earn while gaining a new qualification that Amazon give their full support to. Another exciting part of this team is definitely how many females there are on the course.

What is your proudest moment at Amazon?

So far, during this first year of my apprenticeship my proudest moment was speaking on stage at the FANUC open week event which was streamed to thousands of people, promoting apprenticeships and the MTC and speaking about the specific study I was currently doing. As well as this, the MTC offers awards monthly for students that have gone above and beyond such as the apprentice of the month and extra mile awards – I have been nominated for both and won the extra mile award.

How have you grown as a professional since you started working at Amazon? What new things have you learned and how has it helped you?

I have definitely experienced growth since working with Amazon, my public speaking and confidence have improved with the presentation opportunities and public speaking events I’ve been a part of since being here. I’ve also made significant connections with other people in the business, especially the organisations representing women in engineering, who offer so much support.

Did you go through any major life events when you were working at Amazon? How did Amazon support you during this phase?

As I’ve been working here, I bought my first property which I hope to move into in September when I return, Amazon was helpful in giving me all the documentation I needed relating to my employment and also giving me the time and support needed to view properties.

What is your favourite leadership principle and why?

Learn and be curious – not only is this applicable to the fact that I’m doing an apprenticeship and therefore learning every day, but I think it also embodies the fact that learning is fun and encourages people to be more and improve while also enjoying it.

What do you do outside of work?

I mostly do normal things like go to the gym and out for food with my friends, but I also read heavily and I’m learning to crochet.

*www.logistics.org.uk/generation-logistics

Published On: 11/08/2022 16:00:48

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