An apprentice has overcome acute hearing difficulties by completing his qualification as an Audio-Visual (AV) engineer.

Adam Smith, 21, has now become an engineer at Protech Solutions despite being deaf in his left ear and having tinnitus in his right.

He is the first person to complete an apprenticeship at the IT and AV installations company based in Greenhill Crescent, Watford.

He said: “It’s the best decision I ever made. Because of my hearing difficulties, I had experienced lots of set-backs in my employment search before I discovered this opportunity with Protech Solutions.

“I am excited for my future now as a member of the Protech team, whereas before I felt my options were limited.

“I am grateful to Paul and Protech Solutions for recognizing my potential and giving me a chance to succeed.”

Director of Protech Solutions Paul Marshall said: “We didn’t see Adam’s disability as a hindrance in the slightest. We have supported him in any way we can alongside course provider, CableCom Training.

“Adam has showed great enthusiasm throughout his Apprenticeship and has accomplished the qualification despite the challenge of acute hearing difficulties.

“He is a great addition to the team and we look forward to seeing his skills develop and progress. He is an asset to the company”.