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From Future Pathways Apprentice to Salesforce Solution Engineering Specialist

Jhane Gibson

January 27, 2025

Apprenticeships at Salesforce create a launchpad for talented individuals to kickstart their careers. In this blog, follow the journey of one apprentice and their successful career as a Solution Engineer. Jacob Berry has been making waves as a Solution Engineer Apprentice since joining Salesforce in 2021. Jacob is now thriving as a Solution Engineering Specialist — here’s his story of how his career grew with Futureforce.

Jacob’s introduction to Futureforce

Jacob, can you explain what solution engineering is in your own words?

My role is to identify how our technology can address specific challenges our customers face, and I assist in building solutions that meet their unique requirements. I support pre-sales activities, conduct discovery sessions and develop customised product demos.

Why did you decide to do an apprenticeship?

I chose an apprenticeship because I wanted something more exciting and different after sixth form, and university just didn’t feel like the right fit for me. I had work experience with Salesforce in 2019 and knew it was the place to be. During my two weeks shadowing Solution Engineers, I saw the incredible opportunities the role provides. Starting as a Solution Engineer apprentice in 2021 felt like the perfect way to kickstart my career and gain hands-on experience while growing within a company I already admired.

At Salesforce, apprentices work on real projects and contribute to the success of their teams from day 1. Some of Jacob’s standout achievements include co-leading on some of the largest customer accounts globally and helping to manage complex and high-value deals.

“I am grateful for having such an excellent team of experts with lots of experience to mentor me. They have allowed me to develop while also pushing me to go outside my comfort zone.”

What did you enjoy about being an apprentice?

One of the things I enjoyed most about being an apprentice was the balance between learning and practical application. It allowed me to gain real-world experience in a professional environment while also developing my technical and interpersonal skills. I found it especially rewarding to work on impactful projects, like closing a large deal or contributing to pro-bono initiatives. Additionally, I appreciated the opportunity to collaborate with experienced professionals, which gave me invaluable insights into the industry. It was fulfilling to see how my work directly contributed to the team's success, and I loved the sense of growth and purpose that came with it. I am grateful for having such an excellent team of experts with lots of experience to mentor me. They have allowed me to develop while also pushing me to go outside my comfort zone.

Being a life-long learner is a key skill needed to rock a solution engineering apprenticeship (and any role at Salesforce) and Jacob has shown exactly that! From earning nine Salesforce certifications and excelling in his academic apprenticeship studies, Jacob has taken inquisitiveness to a whole new level.

The skills needed to thrive at Salesforce

What are the key skills you think you have that helped you to become a standout Solution Engineering apprentice? And what skills do you think aspiring SEs should develop?

The key skills that helped me stand out as a Solution Engineering apprentice are adaptability, communication, and problem-solving. Adaptability allowed me to adjust to challenges quickly; communication helped me clearly explain solutions to both colleagues and customers; and problem-solving enabled me to address customer needs effectively. For aspiring Solution Engineers, I’d recommend focusing on technical curiosity, storytelling, and empathy. Being curious helps you understand your products and stay ahead, storytelling helps you explain solutions in a compelling way, and empathy ensures you build solutions that genuinely meet customer needs.

Not only has Jacob had a real impact on his team’s success, but he has also gained skills and knowledge that will help him to excel in his career for years to come.

The apprenticeship has been a significant learning journey for me. One area where I feel I’ve grown is in my ability to discuss both technology and business concepts with customers, adapting my communication to suit different audiences. This skill has been crucial in my role, though it’s an ongoing learning process. The experience has also expanded my technical understanding and strategic thinking, which I hope continues to add value to our team.

When Jacob isn’t helping to close deals, he also gets involved in the Salesforce Ohana culture. Aside from studying for his apprenticeship and working in his team as a solution engineer, Jacob has also become an Equality Group leader and participates in volunteering projects to support the veteran community. On top of this, Jacob was also nominated and made it to the regional finals of the 2024 National Apprenticeship Awards.

CN 382

“Treat the apprenticeship as the start of your career and approach it like a full-time job...Taking it seriously and committing fully will help you earn respect, build credibility, and set yourself up for future success.”

Looking to the future in solution engineering

So Jacob, tell us what the future holds for you?

In the short term, my focus is on advancing to a Senior Solution Engineer role and continuing to grow my expertise. From there, I want to keep building my career by taking on more responsibility and making a greater impact within the organisation. Long term, my aspiration is to reach executive leadership, where I can lead teams, drive innovation, and contribute to the company's strategic direction. I’m committed to consistently developing my skills and delivering value as I progress.

What advice would you give to aspiring solution engineering apprentices?

My advice to aspiring solution engineering apprentices is to treat the apprenticeship as the start of your career and approach it like a full-time job. While the apprenticeship combines both education and work, the majority of your time—around 80%—is focused on the job role. Taking it seriously and committing fully will help you earn respect, build credibility, and set yourself up for future success. Get involved, embrace challenges outside your comfort zone, and give every opportunity your all. By going above and beyond, you’ll not only develop your skills but also establish yourself as a trusted and valued member of the team.

If you're interested in learning more about Future Pathways apprenticeships, take a look at our careers site.