Learning at Work with Sam Porter
Contract Controller at Telent
At Telent, we are excited to participate in National Learning at Work Week 2025 (LAWW) to highlight our development opportunities across the business, at all levels. This year’s theme, 'Get Connected', emphasises the importance of collaboration and the social aspect of lifelong learning.
We are proud to participate in LAWW to further highlight our development opportunities across the business, at all levels. Aligned with this commitment, we are excited to share the inspiring journey of Sam Porter, who has thrived through Telent's commitment to learning and development. Sam's story is a testament to how learning at work can significantly impact personal and professional growth at Telent.
Learning at work has been fundamental to my development at Telent after starting as a Level 3 Rail Technician Apprentice in 2018 for the Asset Management business unit within Telent. I had the opportunity to rotate through multiple departments including planned maintenance, reactive maintenance and the service desk . This hands-on exposure gave me a deep understanding of how each function contributes to the overall success of the organisation. After completing my apprenticeship, I moved into the role of Comms Maintenance Engineer.
On-the-job learning, combined with the mentorship of experienced colleagues, enabled me to build strong technical skills, particularly in maintaining safety critical systems such as TtT CCTV and PAVA systems. One thing that really assisted me in growing my knowledge was shadowing an experienced engineer over several months. Their mentorship helped me understand the systems from a technical perspective and grew my confidence in handling safety critical faults on site.
Building this knowledge then led me to gaining my IRSE license in comms maintenance activities, which would not have been possible without practical on the job learning and the support from my colleagues.
After completing my apprenticeship and building a solid foundation of technical knowledge as a comms engineer, I then moved into a contract controller role where I assist in managing a one of Telent's largest contracts for TfL.
Transitioning from a field-based engineer role to a contract controller position was a major turning point in my development. As a Comms Maintenance Engineer, I gained a deep understanding of technical systems, and the operational challenges faced in the field. Moving into an office-based role allowed me to shift perspective—from hands- on problem-solving to overseeing the bigger picture of contract performance, planning, and client relationship management.
This change helped me develop new skills in areas like commercial awareness, stakeholder communication, and strategic thinking. I’ve learnt how to balance operational needs with contractual obligations, and how to support teams by ensuring the right resources, processes, and information are in place. The role also pushed me to grow in confidence when it comes to leading discussions, making decisions, and managing responsibilities that directly impact contract success. It’s been a valuable step that’s broadened both my technical understanding and my professional capabilities.
Overall Telent are great at fostering development and promoting continuous learning at work. This has been achieved through internal courses, engaging conversations with experienced colleagues and challenges that encourage me to take on new projects, All of these elements have significantly contributed to my current success.
Continued learning at work has been key to growing my confidence, capabilities, and progression within the company.