Structural Technician Review

I am employed by Arup as an Apprentice Structural Technician as part of a strong Buildings Team at the Newcastle Office. I work closely with the Engineers and other Technicians to produce Structural Drawings and Models. I do this whilst completing my BTEC Level 3 and NVQ in Civil Engineering.

I came into this Apprenticeship straight from studying for A-Levels, I had a basic knowledge of the CAD software I would be using but my kniwledge in this area has massively increased and I have developed a huge amount of technical skills.

It is an enjoyable programme for me as I enjoy what I do on a day-to-day basis, it is also a friendly office which makes the work a lot better.

I feel very valued by Arup, they took great care over me when I first started to make sure I melt at home, and now I am further into my Apprenticeship I still have regular catch-ups to makes sure I am still enjoying the programme and to discuss how I am progressing. Arup are a very rewarding company with great benefits, they help you feel valued as much as they can.

It is a well structured programme, I attend a local college one day a week and work the remaining four in the office. I have bi-monthly meetings with my training officer to assess my NVQ progress.

The training provider always tries their best to evaluate your progression and is there to help when ever I have a question about my NVQ or Apprenticeship.

My employer is very supportive and always makes the effort to meet with me and evaluate my progress with me, I am never afarid to ask questions as they are always there to help.

For me, as someone who lives outside the city, the salary covers the cost of travel very well and the generous benefits package helps aswell with discounts on travel etc.

The office has a very sociable feel to it, and there are always events, meet-ups and sports going on outside the office that are all very welcoming to anyone wanting to get involved.

Yes

Arup encourage this by having a reward scheme for those who recommend a friend that is then hired, I would do it anyway as form my own experiences I know its a great Apprenticeship.

Dont't feel afraid to ask questions about the Apprenticehip as the recruitment teams know exactly how some may feel coming into an office environment for the first time.