Developing Talent Through Freight Forwarding Apprenticeships at Envío
A freight forwarding apprenticeship provides an important route into the logistics industry, allowing people to gain recognised qualifications while developing practical skills in a real working environment.
At Envío , bringing new talent into the business is about much more than filling an immediate role. It is an investment in the future of the company, the individuals joining the team and the wider freight forwarding industry.
One of the newest people to begin that journey is Will O’Shea, who joined Envío as an apprentice freight forwarder in October 2025. Working within the company’s busy operations department, Will is gaining hands-on experience across several areas of the business.
The value of this approach can already be seen through the progression of previous Envío apprentice Josh Sweeney.
Josh joined the team as an apprentice in early 2019 and steadily developed his knowledge, experience and responsibilities within the business. His progress culminated in his appointment as Operations Manager in January 2026, demonstrating the genuine long-term career opportunities that an apprenticeship can create.
For Envío , apprenticeships offer the opportunity to develop people from the beginning of their careers. Apprentices learn not only the technical aspects of freight forwarding, but also how the company operates, supports its customers and works together as a team.
They can also bring enthusiasm, fresh ideas and a willingness to learn into the workplace. With the right training and support, an apprentice can develop into a knowledgeable and highly valued member of the business.
Now more than eight months into his programme, Will explains why he chose an apprenticeship, what he has learned so far and what advice he would give to others considering a similar route.
Apprenticeship questionnaire with Will O’Shea
About choosing the apprenticeship
What made you decide to do a freight forwarding apprenticeship rather than going to university or straight into a full-time role?
“I had never been a huge fan of school and much preferred the idea of working while gaining a qualification. It was a personal choice, and I have zero regrets!”
What did the application and interview process look like for you?
“I was referred to this job by another local logistics company. I was put in contact with Scott and soon went for an interview with him and Sean.
“It was relaxed and very insightful. They took me through what Envío does and explained its market. As someone who knew next to nothing about logistics, I gained a real understanding of what goes on here.”
About the programme so far
How far along are you in your apprenticeship, and what does a typical week look like, including college work and on-the-job training?
“I am over eight months into my freight forwarding apprenticeship, and it has flown by. A typical week consists of several different tasks covering both operations and documentation.
“At the start, you are learning so much every day from everyone here, alongside completing the college element. It is a lot to take in!”
What are you currently working on or learning in your freight forwarding apprenticeship?
“Currently, I would say my main aim is to handle FCL bookings from start to finish. I am squeezing in as much practice as possible.”
Is there anywhere you have struggled while completing the programme, such as workload, support or learning?
“It was definitely overwhelming and stressful at certain points, but that is how you learn!
“I have become much more proficient in my work, and you can always ask for a hand if things become too much.”
About what has been learned
What are the top three skills you have developed so far?
“Time management, improved communication skills and working in a fast-paced environment.”
What is the most useful thing you have learned, whether technical or otherwise?
“Learning how to prioritise your workload is essential. This has helped me significantly throughout my apprenticeship.”
Has anything been harder than you expected?
“Time management and dealing with stress!”
About support and growth
How well supported have you felt by your manager, mentor and the wider team at Envío ?
“Very well. The team has been very supportive throughout and is always there to help.
“We have progress meetings and set targets, which is very beneficial.”
Have you had the chance to become involved in any areas outside your main role?
“I have had the opportunity to deal with almost every aspect of the LCL process, from quotations and bookings to sending the final documents and calculating the profits.”
Looking ahead
What advice would you give to someone just starting an apprenticeship, either at Envío or elsewhere?
“Ask as many questions as you can! There is no shame in it, and the people around you will be more than happy to help.”
Developing Careers Through Freight Forwarding Apprenticeships
Will’s experience highlights many of the benefits that apprenticeships can provide. He is developing technical freight knowledge while also learning vital workplace skills, including communication, organisation, prioritisation and handling pressure.
Josh’s progression from apprentice to Operations Manager also shows where that initial opportunity can lead. His story provides both an example and encouragement to Will and other young people beginning their careers with the company.
By continuing to invest in freight forwarding apprenticeships, Envío is helping people establish meaningful careers while developing the skilled and experienced freight professionals its customers and the wider logistics sector will require in the years ahead.
