This #NationalApprenticeshipWeek, we celebrate the success of apprentices and the life-changing opportunities they create. Our Seetec CEO, John Baumback, began his career as a teenage apprentice in 1984 and has spent over 40 years shaping talent, creating opportunities, and leading innovation. Follow John’s journey below from apprentice to Seetec CEO, and discover how the organisation has evolved along the way.
⨀ The Early Days
“When I joined Seetec in 1984 as a teenage apprentice, I was our 7th employee. I couldn’t have imagined the journey ahead. Over the past four decades, I’ve seen first-hand how the right training can completely change a person’s life. I’ve watched young people who weren’t sure where they belonged find direction, confidence and careers that have taken them all over the world.”
The Power of Opportunity ⨀
“Some of the people I taught back in the 1980s went on to build websites for global brands or work on major film productions. That’s the power of opportunity – and why I’ve never stopped believing in the value of apprenticeships.”
⨀ From Small Steps to Big Achievements
“From those early days in a small office in Essex, Seetec has grown into a leading provider of skills, employability, and training services across the UK and Ireland. Our purpose remains exactly the same as it was then: to help people, businesses, and communities achieve their potential.”
Driving Innovation ⨀
“We’ve always been an organisation that does things differently. From pioneering technology solutions before the internet era, to launching the UK’s first probation messaging system and early online training models, innovation has been part of our DNA for over 40 years. That same forward-thinking spirit drives our apprenticeship programmes today, helping employers build skilled, resilient teams in a changing world.”
⨀ Putting People First
“What makes Seetec unique is our people. As an employee-owned business, every one of us has a stake in your success. We’re proud of the impact we’ve made in partnership with employers – but even prouder of the impact our learners make every day in their workplaces.”
Inspiring the Next Generation ⨀
“I started my journey at Seetec as an apprentice. I know what it means to be given a chance, to be trusted, and to grow through learning. That’s what apprenticeships are all about – and it’s why we’re so passionate about helping other businesses unlock the same potential in their people.”
