Apprentice Review

My role started as a project controls assistant. I have been involved in admin tasks, project communication, stakeholder engagement and had an intro into information management. My tasks have involved engagement with the whole project team which has enabled me to be an integrated empowered team member. My main responsibilities thus far are maintaining the project directory and issuing the monthly project newsletter.

Whilst it may seem obvious, my office skills have improved enabling me to behave in a professional manner. I have been on numerous internal training courses, of which some were regarding the above point - how to behave in a professional environment. I have also received an Agile 2014 PM Foundation qualification. My organisational skills have also improved and are still doing so. My software skills are also improving: I am being trained on how to create, use and maintain SharePoint sites by two senior colleagues. My excel skills have also improved dramatically, having recently created a form in excel using VBA.

'Time flies when you are enjoying yourself' - and my first 6 months on the programme have flew by. Mace is a great organisation with exceptional staff who make you look forward coming in to work. Mace takes on a large number of apprentices every year, and together we form a community which helps us settle in and not feel surrounded by miserable middle aged men.

My manager is really great - always available for advice and help. I am entrusted to send out project wide communication which is a responsibility. Being entrusted to carry out such tasks makes me feel valued. I am also included in any social events. Therefore I feel valued to an extent.

Given it is Mace's first Project Management Apprenticeship Programme, I think they are doing a great job. We were given a whole day induction - certain small details were missed but by being proactive and asking someone from the team we were able to fill the gaps . We are given regular training - interpersonal skills, business and construction technology workshops.

We have a skills coach with whom we have a meeting every 6 weeks. However at this stage, the learning is very much down to one’s self. Without a doubt, I am the sole driver in this apprenticeship. QA Training provides the workshops, but I have to ensure I take away everything I need from these sessions.

My manager is great HR is closely involved with us - such that there is a specific department within HR who organised our program, supports us and is always on hand if an issue would arise. I have had a mentor since I started on the programme - so I have received support from that tend.

I must say currently the package is one that I cannot complain about. Mace pay for my travel. Mace approve reasonable expense claims and I am really happy. I would be even more happy when Mace gives me a pay rise in September. During site-visits Mace pays for breakfast and dinner but does not pay for my lunch but then which company does.

Absoloutely. I have been to an international Project Controls expo, numerous comms sessions which are followed by drinks! Mace also gives every employee a volunteer day which you are paid to take - signifying the importance Mace gives to returning something to the community. I volunteered at a local after school club for children from less-privileged backgrounds - a very rewarding experience.

Yes

Growing company Good business model Competitive salary Opportunity to work anywhere in the world

Be confident. Show you are a team worker - you must be able to integrate into your team. Show motivation. Research Mace. For team-assessments: exaggerate your actions, don't be shy, speak your mind, be part of all discussions and just remember keep a big smile on your face.