Changing careers can feel like a daunting prospect at any stage of life. For many people, the thought of starting again in their late thirties or forties is enough to put them off altogether.
But for TECC electrician Martyn Masters, taking that leap proved to be one of the best decisions he ever made.
Now, after years of dedication, hard work and determination, Martyn has been recognised as the Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce Rising Star of the Year 2026 – an award that celebrates emerging talent and exceptional achievement.
A Career Change at 37
Before joining TECC, Martyn’s career looked very different.
He worked for Pizza Hut and, before that, had an unusual role as a bingo caller. Although neither job was in the electrical industry, he had always enjoyed practical work and had started helping his sister with electrical jobs while she was renovating her home.
“I’d been involving myself in bits of electrical work for a few years,” Martyn explained. “I enjoyed doing odd jobs and learning as I went.”
When TECC founder Peter McCallum recognised Martyn’s practical ability and offered him the opportunity to train as an electrician, he didn’t hesitate.
“I was very happy to take the opportunity.”
Starting from the Ground Up
Martyn first joined TECC’s PAT Testing division, where he quickly progressed to become Head PAT Testing Technician, leading the team and gaining valuable experience working with customers across a wide range of sectors.
It was Peter who saw Martyn’s potential for something more.
“He knew I was good with my hands and saw something in me,” says Martyn. “He gave me the opportunity to start my electrical apprenticeship.”
At the age of 37, Martyn began his apprenticeship alongside much younger students.
The Challenges Along the Way
While changing careers itself didn’t faze Martyn, returning to education after many years certainly brought its own challenges.
After enrolling on his apprenticeship, he discovered he needed to achieve his Maths and English qualifications before he could progress. Rather than seeing this as a setback, Martyn embraced the challenge, attending evening classes for 16 weeks while continuing to work full-time at TECC.
He successfully passed both qualifications and continues with his apprenticeship, balancing work, college and practical training over the following years.
“There were quite a few struggles throughout the years,” he says. “But we managed to get through it.”
His determination and commitment continue to pay off. Martyn is well on his way to qualifying as a fully qualified electrician and is set to complete his apprenticeship at the age of 41.
Learning Every Day
During his apprenticeship, Martyn is learning every aspect of electrical installation, from wiring and lighting systems to cable containment and installation techniques.
What he enjoys most about being an electrician is that no two days are ever the same.
“Every job comes with its own challenges. You’re learning something new all the time.”
That continual learning has helped build his confidence enormously.
“My confidence has grown a lot. I trust myself now and know I can do so much more than when I first started.”
Recognition That Means So Much
Winning the Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce Rising Star of the Year Award was something Martyn never expected.
For him, it wasn’t just about receiving a trophy – it was about being recognised for the journey he is taking.
“It’s great to be acknowledged and recognised. In previous jobs I’d never really had anything like that.”
He is also quick to credit the people who helped him along the way.
“Pete and Maria have put so much into me, and I’m very proud of that.”
Looking to the Future
Although winning the award is a significant milestone, Martyn has no intention of standing still.
He’s keen to continue developing his skills, particularly in electrical inspection and testing, while expanding his experience in renewable technologies such as solar installations – an area of work he has particularly enjoyed.
Like any good electrician, he’s always looking for the next challenge.
It’s Never Too Late
Martyn’s story is a reminder that it’s never too late to learn a new skill or pursue a different career.
When asked what advice he’d give someone considering retraining later in life, his response was simple:
“Don’t rush. Take it steadily. Speak to someone who’s already done it and make a plan for the future.”
For anyone wondering whether they’re too old to start again, Martyn is living proof that age doesn’t define your potential.
At TECC, we’re incredibly proud of everything Martyn has achieved. From PAT Testing Technician to Rising Star of the Year, his journey is a testament to hard work, determination and a willingness to embrace new challenges. We can’t wait to see what he accomplishes next as he continues towards becoming a fully qualified electrician.
Congratulations, Martyn!