The Challenge: Turning International Experience into a UK Career
Alex Wong’s journey into pharmaceutical manufacturing is anything but ordinary. Before joining University Hospitals Birmingham (UHB), Alex built a strong scientific foundation overseas, working in Hong Kong as a Research Assistant at the University of Hong Kong. During this time, he contributed to laboratory-based research projects, including work linked to the World Health Organization during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as antimicrobial testing and quality-focused laboratory processes.
After moving to the UK five years ago, Alex was keen to find a role that aligned with his scientific background. He initially joined the NHS as a Medical Laboratory Assistant, but soon discovered the opportunity to work within aseptic manufacturing at UHB. The Science Manufacturing Technician role offered something he was actively looking for: a highly technical, hands-on environment with increased responsibility, tighter controls, and more advanced cleanroom practices than he had previously experienced.
Working in the Aseptic Unit, Alex plays a critical role in preparing cytotoxic and monoclonal antibody medicines for cancer patients and hospital use. His responsibilities include drug manufacturing, transfers, in-process checks, and even training new staff, all within an environment where precision, compliance, and patient safety are paramount.
The Turning Point: Building Confidence Through the Apprenticeship
To strengthen his knowledge and progress his career within the NHS, Alex enrolled on the Level 3 Science Manufacturing Technician apprenticeship with Skills4Pharmacy.
As Alex approaches the final stages of the programme, he reflected on how the course deepened his understanding of areas he would not typically encounter day-to-day in his role. While the practical elements of aseptic work were familiar, the apprenticeship opened his eyes to the “why” behind the processes.
One of the most valuable aspects for Alex was learning about quality systems, audits, licensing requirements, and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP). Prior to the programme, these concepts existed in the background of his role; through the apprenticeship, they became clear, meaningful, and directly connected to patient safety.
“The legislation side is very useful,” Alex explains. “If I wasn’t doing the course, I wouldn’t know why GMP is so important, or whether my unit is licensed or unlicensed. Now I understand why we do each step.”
This knowledge has had a direct impact on Alex’s confidence at work. As someone who now helps train new starters, he is able to clearly explain not just how tasks are done, but why they are essential, without needing to constantly refer back to SOPs or seek reassurance from colleagues.
Support That Makes a Difference
Alex credits much of his success to the strong support network surrounding his apprenticeship. His Skills4Pharmacy tutor, Kirsty, provided consistent guidance throughout the programme, offering quick responses, patience, and clarity, even when Alex’s demanding workload meant he occasionally missed scheduled sessions.
Alongside this, UHB ensured Alex had dedicated off-the-job training time each week, giving him the space to complete assignments and stay on track, despite the pressures of working in a busy aseptic unit.
As an overseas learner, Alex also completed Functional Skills in English and Maths as part of his programme. While initially challenging, this additional support helped him build confidence in written communication and technical language, skills that continue to benefit him both academically and professionally.
The Result: Knowledge That Opens Doors
As Alex nears the end of his apprenticeship, the impact is clear. He has developed a deeper understanding of quality assurance, risk management, and change control, areas that align closely with his previous academic background in Food Safety and Technology.
Looking ahead, Alex plans to continue his career at UHB, exploring progression opportunities and potential future pathways into Quality Assurance roles. With experience in both international research environments and NHS aseptic manufacturing, the apprenticeship has helped bridge the gap between past experience and future ambition.
When asked what advice he would give to others considering the programme, Alex is clear:
“If the opportunity is there, take it. You always gain something from it. You might not realise how useful the knowledge will be until later.”
His enthusiasm has already had a ripple effect within the department, with several colleagues expressing interest in joining the programme themselves, a testament to the value apprenticeships bring, not just to individuals, but to entire teams.