Jacob Ibbetson is a walking case study of how to make a great start in the world of IT. Our Junior Tier 1 Network and Fibre Technician hit the ground running, working hard to complete his Network Cable Installer Level 3 Apprenticeship. He passed – with a distinction. With this training under his belt, he worked proactively with the Aztek team and our clients to develop a whole new service for the business, which is reaping great rewards.
Now, quite deservedly, he’s been whittled down to the final three in the Digital and IT Category of the Cornwall Apprenticeship Awards 2026.
Meanwhile, he achieved all of this while battling some serious health issues. Let’s leave the business speak aside for a moment and say it like it is: Jacob has absolutely smashed it! Here’s what he said in our chat.
Getting to know Jacob
Jacob, how does it feel to be on the shortlist for the Cornwall Apprenticeship Awards 2026.
Very gratifying, if I’m honest. Progressing in my role is enough in itself, but this feels like the icing on the cake.
Let’s wind right back to the beginning. What was it like when you started at Aztek?
I came from a very different environment – I used to be a labourer – so I had to work on my professional manner and how I conducted myself.
Steep learning curve?
Definitely, but I received help from everyone at Aztek. There was also assistance from the apprenticeship training provider, CNet – they’ve been very supportive.
Going The Extra Mile
Let’s talk about your training. You passed your Network Cable Installer Level 3 Apprenticeship with a distinction. Did that feel good?
100 per cent. I wanted to prove to myself and everyone around me that I could pass with a distinction, so I put loads of hours and effort into it. It’ll always be something I can be proud of – no one can take this away from me.
And you did all of this while enduring heart issues and shoulder surgery. You’re basically the poster boy for ‘above and beyond’.
Well, yes, this did all happen during a period of health challenges. In fact, I was determined to finish my training before a surgery. On one occasion, I travelled seven hours from Camborne to Bury St Edmunds for three days of intensive practical training for my critical End Point Assessment, the final stage of my apprenticeship. And I passed first time. The training really matters to me. It’s given me the building blocks to progress at Aztek.
Which brings us to something pretty remarkable. You’ve been the driving force behind the rollout of a new service for Aztek?
My training and qualifications helped drive the creation of an in-house infrastructure team. One thing I know the Aztek leadership team are happy about is that this has allowed us to keep this service in Cornwall, rather than sourcing out of county. It’s even helped us source cable from a local supplier. I’m not going to lie – it’s been very good for business too!
And this new service led to Aztek helping you develop yet another skill?
Yes – driving! I was unable to do this previously, because of my heart issues. Once I was considered fit enough to drive, Aztek helped me by paying for some lessons. I’m now able to visit clients in person, which has really helped to develop the infrastructure service. Aztek has gone above and beyond in investing in my skills – it was very generous and helpful.
Innovation and Interests
Tell us about an exciting emerging technology.
Hollow-core fibre. This uses air-filled cores that allow data to travel up to 50% faster with lower latency. For clients, it will mean even more responsive internet, which is something I know they want. It’s very promising.
And what do you do when you’re not collecting course distinctions and award nominations?
I love to train, especially in the gym – it’s like my second home. Also, gaming is a passion and I love to ocean swim. We live in Cornwall so, when the weather’s right, I’m out there making the most of it.
Celebrating Jacob’s Achievements
We’re extremely proud of Jacob and everything he has achieved. His hard work, dedication, and resilience haven’t just earned him a place on the Cornwall Apprenticeship Awards shortlist for 2026 – they’ve also made a real difference here at Aztek, helping to grow our business and strengthen our team.
If you’d like to find out more about our IT infrastructure solutions or need a hand with IT support, we’d love to hear from you.