Trainee Digital Engineer Review

My Current role is a Trainee Digital Engineer and this involves contributing towards a variety of BIM and 3D related activities ranging from object modeling to completing clash detection tests to aid the workers on site and reduce the cost to the company of construction errors.

I have learned a vast amount of new skills in terms of software and construction knowledge. I came into the apprenticeship without any background in the industry and have since developed an improved knowledge of the construction industry whilst learning new skills on software such as Revit or Navisworks. I have also developed existing skills including confidence and teamwork skills.

I enjoy the programme to a great extent. it combines the best of both academic learning via University day release but also invaluable on the job learning and day to day contact with experienced industry pros therefore providing me with the best chance of future success. The work is also enjoyable and always interesting and the team are also great people to work with making the apprenticeship also very enjoyable.

I feel very valued by Laing O'Rourke. From the first day you are made to feel like a part of a family with communal emails to let you know how others are getting on as well as the social media platform Yammer. Everyone is very friendly and that in itself makes you feel valued. Whilst there are no personal meetings with the board members to let you know how you are getting on, this cannot be expected and instead your own line managers help make you feel valued and trusted.

I feel that the programme is very well structured. It is a five year course with a number of different goals planned for various stages along the journey. The first year is all about getting use to the company and your new working environment whilst the remaining four years are spent developing your knowledge but also yourself as a person so you become a well rounded individual who is ready to work full time and complete what is expected of them and to the correct high standards.

I personally don't really have a training provider but the support from other colleagues is always there if you just ask. Everyone from your manager to team mates are always eager to help each other out if needed so support is always on offer. Email addresses are also very easy to access and so if you are stuck with something it is very easy to get in touch with someone who may be able to help you out.

I have received quite a bit of support from managers and other people within the company however I personally feel that it may be more beneficial for more support particularly for those like myself who have no previous knowledge of the construction industry. This could come in the form of support documents or even internal training courses, but a little more support would be beneficial in my opinion.

I feel the starting salary for the apprenticeships is very fair. Whilst I do not yet drive so don't have to worry about the cost of a car or petrol etc I feel that the salary does meet my current costs. This is helped by yearly increases on the programme anyway which rise depending upon performance within the apprenticeship and what stage you are at within it.

There are a number of opportunities for personal development outside of work including lectures and workshops etc that can be attended. There are also other opportunities to attend company events or even help out at some if you wish. Personally I feel that Leisure and sport opportunities could be improved such as an office football league or monthly badminton tournaments etc just to boost morale and keep people active.

Yes

It is an excellent company which treat people like they are part of a family. If you provide your best then the rewards are endless in terms of having a positive future career. The programme provides you with the best platform to learn and develop yourself and you are made to feel very welcome by all staff. It is a fun, enjoyable and rewarding company to work for.

I personally would advise people applying for the apprenticeship scheme to do something beforehand which proves that they are eager to be a part of the company such as taking part in work experience with them or attending a course which relates to the job you are applying for. In terms of the interview process, they seem very keen to know more about you as a person and if you will be committed to the cause so prove to them you are always willing to learn and that you want to always try and better yourself.