An apprenticeship is helping a young man build a career from the ground up.
Eighteen-year-old Marley O’Kell from Milford Haven is training in site carpentry through a placement with Lovell at the Augustus Grange housing development in Haverfordwest.
Mr O’Kell said: "I’ve always been hands-on and enjoyed working with tools, so pursuing an apprenticeship felt like a natural step.
"It allows me to learn directly on-site while gaining real-world experience, which is invaluable."
Currently in his second year at Pembrokeshire College, Mr O’Kell has been employed by Cyfle Building Skills since August 2024 through its shared apprenticeship scheme.
He began his full-time placement with Lovell in April 2025.
Inspired by his father, who works as a plumber, Mr O’Kell said he was drawn to a practical, hands-on career.
He approached Cyfle Building Skills, an organisation offering apprenticeships with experience across multiple employers.
Through the scheme, he joined Lovell as an apprentice carpenter at Augustus Grange.
He said the role has helped him develop core carpentry skills, industry connections, and an understanding of the construction process from groundworks to final fix.
Gemma Clissett, regional partnerships director at Lovell, said: "Lovell is so happy to be providing opportunities for young people to kickstart their careers and learn a multitude of skills.
"We are always thrilled to hear success stories from apprentices, and we value the importance of investing in and developing raw talent."
Paul Falzon, Mr O’Kell’s supervisor at Cyfle Building Skills, praised his progress.
Mr Falzon said: "Marley has shown real commitment and enthusiasm throughout his journey, and it’s been fantastic to see him grow during his placement with Lovell.
"He’s taken full advantage of the experience available to him and is well on his way to a successful future in construction."
Amanda Roberts, community development facilitator at Pobl, said: "We’re really pleased to be able to provide apprenticeship opportunities on our developments, supporting young people like Marley to gain the skills and confidence they need to build successful careers in construction."
Augustus Grange is a mixed-tenure development delivered in partnership with Pobl Group, offering 115 two and three-bedroom homes, including 36 for open market sale and 79 affordable homes.
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