Proud to Be MLA Approved: A Second-Generation Locksmith’s Story

A young Alex Smith beside the Chelmsford Master Locksmiths van — the early days of a trusted Essex locksmith and future MLA Approved Company owner

Alex Smith of MLA Approved Company Chelmsford Master Locksmiths shares his journey into the trade — and what it means to carry the family legacy forward

For many locksmiths, the profession isn’t just a job — it’s a craft, a responsibility, and often, a family tradition. That’s certainly true for Alex Smith, a second-generation locksmith who represents the next chapter of Chelmsford Master Locksmiths, an MLA Approved locksmith in Chelmsford with deep roots in the trade.

At just 26 years old, Alex already brings over a decade of experience, having started his locksmithing journey the moment he left school. Learning the trade under the close mentorship of his father, Brett Smith, and godfather, John Day, Alex completed his MLA apprenticeship and joined the company full-time.

“I left school at 16 and knew exactly what I wanted to do,” Alex explains. “Locksmithing has always been part of my life, and doing the MLA apprenticeship was the best way to get the foundations right. From there, it was all about building experience.”

Learning in the Heart of the Locksmith Business

For the first five years of his career, Alex was based in the Chelmsford locksmith shop, developing his knowledge, honing his skills, and learning what it meant to serve the local community with integrity and professionalism.

“You’re right in the thick of it in the shop — you learn so much, from technical work to customer service. Being surrounded by experienced locksmiths like my dad and John meant there was always someone to learn from.”

But it was a moment at age 21 that marked a major milestone in Alex’s journey.

“That first day I got the van — it’s something I’ll never forget. Being trusted to go out on the road, representing the business, and upholding the reputation they’d spent decades building… it meant everything to me. It was a big moment, and I took it seriously.”

A Standard to Live Up To as a Lockmith

With high standards, a respected name in the community, and a growing customer base, Chelmsford Master Locksmiths is built on trust and consistent professionalism — values that Alex has fully embraced.

“There’s a real sense of responsibility when you’re part of something like this. I’m not just working in the family business — I’m helping to shape its future.”

Aiming to Be the Best in the Industry

Being part of the Master Locksmiths Association has played a huge role in Alex’s development — and in the company’s continued success.

“The MLA has always been something we’ve looked up to — it’s the benchmark. We want to be the best we can be in the industry, and the MLA helps make that possible,” says Alex. “From training and standards to support and community, it’s been a key part of my journey.”

Alex Smith during his apprenticeship at the MLA Training Centre in Daventry, in May 2015, under the watchful eye of respected instructor Ken Bryan.

Next Generation of Locksmiths, Same Commitment

As Alex continues to build his career, his focus is clear: uphold the legacy, grow with the trade, and maintain the trust Chelmsford Master Locksmiths has earned over the years.

“I’ve been lucky to learn from the best — and now it’s my turn to carry that forward. I’m proud to be part of the next generation of MLA locksmiths.”

More interviews with locksmiths

To find out more about Chelmsford Master Locksmiths, visit Chelmsford Master Locksmiths Company Profile

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