We recently caught up with Michael Crean, who has just completed his T Level in Management and Administration. Alongside his coursework and work placement at Alt Labs, Michael has also launched his own businesses!
“Initially, I wasn’t planning on attending college, but the T Level offered a blend of classroom learning and work experience, equivalent to three A Levels. During my first year, I had a work placement with the NHS, followed by a placement at Alt Labs, based at Flok.
“At my NHS placement, I started in the Patient Finance department, collaborating with external sources that funded patient care. Later, I moved to the Logistics and Drug Transport department, where I worked on a project to develop software for tracking inventory, including medical equipment.
“I secured my second-year placement with Alt Labs after frequently visiting Flok and attending various networking events they hosted. I got to know many people there, including Imran Anwar, the owner of Alt Labs and a College Governor.
“The workspace at Flok hosts different business cohorts, including start-ups and established companies. Each month, I shadow different businesses, learning from the people in the cohorts and discovering how they started.
“I’ve received offers from several universities, including ones in London, Teesside, and Northumbria. However, I’ve also been offered a job with Alt Labs to help manage another cohort of businesses, focusing on more projects and operations.”
In addition to his T Level course, Michael has set up three businesses!
“I run a clothing business called RVLTN, which offers affordable streetwear that bridges the gap between brands like Primark and higher-end labels such as Broken Planet.
“Through this venture, I created a B2B branding company that designs clothing for businesses. Initially, I worked with cohorts at Flok and local companies, designing branded t-shirts and hoodies.
“My biggest client is Trish Balusa, who hosts the popular podcast ‘Talk to Trish’. I met her at a networking event, and we started collaborating. I create custom merchandise for her podcast, and my company sponsors it. All the merchandise features her quotes, and she’s thrilled about the upcoming releases.
“I’ve also taken on work placements and T Level students from Middlesbrough College and local universities. They assist with social media and photography for the clothing line.
“Last year, my T Level course hosted a networking group with the Meldrum Group. This inspired me to create a Business Incubator Programme for schools, colleges, and universities. It’s a step-by-step guide to setting up a business, providing students with hands-on learning.
“The programme covers everything from media and marketing to legalities and finances. Through the sessions, students can design a hoodie or t-shirt and develop a full case study to bring their business idea to life. At the end, they can receive a physical version of their product or even start selling it, with support from my Revolution clothing brand.”
Outside of his T Level course and businesses, Michael also works three part-time jobs.
“I’ve recently been promoted to a Regional Management position at Little Kickers, where we train kids aged 18 months to 8 years in basic football skills. I also work at Project Escape and Putter Chaos, both located in Middlesbrough.”
Michael has received significant support from Imran Anwar, the owner of Alt Labs and a Middlesbrough College Governor, who recently won Business Leader of the Year at the Tee Business Awards 2025.
“I first met Imran at a Mental Health Awareness event at Flok. His insightful talks and expertise inspired me to get more involved. He has been incredibly supportive with my work placements and businesses. He even lent me his motorbike for a photoshoot!
“Imran has built a team of people who are always willing to help, and each have their own specialties. Networking with such diverse individuals has been invaluable. I even received an invite to the MOBO Awards through the team, which was fantastic.”
When asked what advice he would give to new students at Middlesbrough College, Michael said, “Get involved in everything. Take every opportunity available and start networking with different people and businesses.”
Are you a business wanting to provide work experience to the future workforce? Contact Nicola Templeman, Work Placement Coordinator for Business and Professional Skills, on 07585 997532 or email n.templeman@mbro.ac.uk.
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