From Engineering Student to Government Minister: Jack Sargeant MS’ Journey from Wrexham University to The Senedd
Jack Sargeant MS’ career has been nothing short of inspiring. As a proud Wrexham University alumnus, we caught up with him to hear how his studies helped build the foundations for the work he does today.
Jack studied Industrial Engineering at Wrexham University while working as an apprentice in a manufacturing business in Connah’s Quay, balancing hands‑on industry experience with further study. Today, he serves as the Welsh Government’s Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership.
His journey is a powerful example of how accessible, flexible higher education can transform lives, and how Wrexham University continues to support and shape its alumni long after their studies.
Choosing Wrexham University
Jack joined Wrexham University during his engineering apprenticeship, completing the Foundation Degree in Industrial Engineering before progressing to the BEng (Hons) Industrial Engineering Top-Up year and graduating in 2016. Living just 30 minutes away, Wrexham University offered the ideal balance between work, home life and higher‑level study: “I was really pleased that I was able to earn whilst I learned… be at work, be at home, but then just come 30 minutes down the road to Wrexham and study at that level. I really could recommend it to anyone.”
He also saw how much the city had to offer. With new developments and growing momentum, Wrexham felt like a place moving forward.
Engineering Career
Jack’s engineering career began on the shop floor of a manufacturing business, giving him strong practical experience. He feels that combining this with academic study at Wrexham University helped him progress into more advanced roles: “Doing the foundation degree as part of my apprenticeship enabled me to go into the offices to take up an engineering role,” he went on to add, “then the BEng top‑up degree enabled me to go further.”
That “further” meant stepping into a research and development position at a global automotive company: “It enabled me to take the skills I learned on the shop floor as an apprentice, married with the technical skills I learned here at Wrexham, and put them together to grow professionally.”
Transitioning from Engineering to Minister
In 2018, Jack stood for election to the Welsh Parliament and became the youngest ever Member of the Senedd (MS) for Alyn and Deeside. He now holds a Cabinet role in the Welsh Government as Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership.
It’s a position full of responsibility, including overseeing a £140 million apprenticeship budget, co‑chairing the Social Partnership Council, shaping national policy on skills, culture, heritage and the creative industries, and supporting economic and social priorities across Wales.
What makes his appointment particularly meaningful is the pathway he came from. With an engineering career and apprenticeship background shaped at Wrexham University, he brings first‑hand industry experience to decisions that affect the future workforce: “I think I'm the first Minister - certainly in the Welsh Government - who's been an apprentice themselves to have the responsibility for apprenticeships in Wales,” he said, believing strongly that “we need to see more of that in the future.”
Bringing an Engineer’s Mindset to Government
Jack is clear that his engineering background continues to shape how he works: “Being an engineer always comes first - it's always in the back of your mind; you learn skills, continuous improvement is always there.” Engineers are used to problem‑solving, and Jack applies that same logic to policymaking: “We look at problems with a solutions‑focused mind rather than ‘there’s a problem here, we don’t know what to do about it.’ When I’m making decisions in government, it’s those techniques and those skills that I bring to the table. I’m always looking for the solution, and then how we can improve it further.”
Favourite Memories at Wrexham University
When Jack looks back on his time at Wrexham University, it’s the resilience and confidence he developed that stand out most. He credits the hands‑on nature of engineering and the support of the University for shaping his approach to challenges: “The resilience you learn from being an engineer, and from your education here in Wrexham, certainly helps shape you,” he reflected. Along the way, he also formed strong friendships that remain important to him today. Studying alongside a fellow apprentice, Mike, the two have stayed close ever since: “Mike’s coming to my wedding in the summer, and I’m going to his a few weeks before. You can’t beat that.”
The wider Wrexham experience also played a significant part in building his confidence. “Wrexham really is a city on the up. The world is literally watching Wrexham. You get inspiration from being here - it gives you the ability to go on and be your best self.”
Returning to campus as a minister felt particularly meaningful, and opening the University’s Engineering Centre, CanfodAu, marked a full-circle moment for him: “It’s been 10 years since I studied here, but to come back and see all the fantastic things happening - it’s great.”
Advice for Future Students
Jack’s advice to anyone considering studying at Wrexham University is simple and enthusiastic: “Enjoy it. Take it all in,” he said. “Whether you're a full‑time student, part‑time, coming from industry like me or coming later on in life - make good friends, give it your all. It'll be a good choice for you.”
He also reflected on the progress and growth happening both at the university and across the city: “The city’s doing good things at the moment, and the university is very much part of that. You've got the football club next door, you've got all of the things happening in the city centre, Tŷ Pawb’s great for local culture… there's a lot to offer.”
Jack’s story shows how the right support, skills and opportunities can shape your future, and how an experience at Wrexham University can stay with you long after your studies.
If you’re ready to start your own journey, explore our Engineering degrees and flexible study routes at our next open day, where you can tour our facilities, attend subject talks, and chat with current students about studying here.