Structural Technician Apprentice Review

My role is to model building structures and to create engineering drawings for other engineers, the architect, contractors, and the client. I complete work using Building Information Modelling (BIM) softwares such as AutoCAD and Revit. I have modelled structures for projects such as: the Manchester Engineering Campus Development (MECD) for Manchester University, the Arts and Humanities Campus for Manchester Metropolitan University, Paterson Redevelopment Project, Colwyn Bay Office, and I have also worked on Official drawings for a classified client. I have produced and managed my own packages of drawings, monitoring their progress and status of completion by effectively communicating with our team of engineers.

Since starting my apprenticeship I have learned a wide range of new skills. The main skills I have learned is how to use BIM/CAD softwares, mainly Revit and AutoCAD. I have worked on other BIM packages such as Tekla Structural Designer, Dynamo, and Grasshopper. I have also learned how to coordinate work with engineers and architects to ensure effective communication on engineering drawing packages for projects.

I find working as an apprentice for Arup extremely interesting as I am always being introduced to working on new and exciting building projects. I am pushed to the best of my abilities to ensure that I thrive in my working environment. I always feel appreciated in the work that I do and my hard work is always acknowledged by the higher members of my team. This creates a working environment that is built for creating successful professionals.

The Arup Apprentice Framework is extremely organised/structured to ensure that all apprentices are set a standard of work to maintain and exceed. It is structured well alongside the college and NVQ requirements for the apprenticeship programme. The programme makes sure that all Arup offices keep to the same standards to ensure that all apprentices evolve equally.

As an apprentice I receive all the support that I need whilst I develop in my discipline. I have all-round support from other Technicians, Engineers, Directors, and Associates in my team to enrich my learning development within the Building Structures Team. Everyone is focussed on aiding my development and ensuring that I get the most experience out of my day-to-day working.

I receive a good amount of support from my training provider whilst I work towards completing my qualifications. My training provider makes themselves available to me whenever I may have queries about the work that I am completing. They are quick to respond to all of my questions. I have regular meetings with the training provider to ensure that I am meeting deadlines and that I am working to a high standard.

Alongside my apprenticeship, I attend college on day-release to complete a BTEC Level 3 in Construction and the Built Environment. I have also completed a Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Civil Engineering for Technicians which is work-based evidence as well as written reports to show my knowledge about my profession. These qualifications ensure that I have the relevant knowledge to help me with my day-to-day work.

Throughout my time at Arup I have started a collaboration with another apprentice in the MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Public Health) team in Manchester to produce a BIM Newsletter for our staff in our offices in the North West and Yorkshire region (Manchester, Liverpool, Sheffield, and Leeds). This newsletter highlights recent developments in technology that are used within work at Arup, project updates on construction works that our offices are taking part in, and staff achievements such as chartership. I email project managers, directors, and other higher members of staff asking to inform me of updates, new BIM tools, and new softwares that are now accessible. After attending the recent Northern Powerhouse Partnership (NPP) Apprentice Summit, I was emailed back asking if I wanted to become a member of the new Apprentice Panel that the NPP were setting up. As a member of the Panel, I will work alongside several other selected apprentices to tackle issues regarding the awareness of apprenticeship opportunities and varying other issues.

Yes

I would recommend Arup as a company for someone to work because it is an extremely friendly and encouraging working environment. All the people that work at Arup are top professionals in their disciplines of work. Everyone is dedicated to sharing their knowledge and skill to help others progress in their careers in Arup. There are so many opportunities to work on amazing projects within the firm as it is a Global company.

Showing a clear and dedicated passion for the specific discipline that you are applying for is always a good way to start. Applying for work/summer experience in the industry is a bonus because it shows that you are interested in preparing yourself as much as possible before completing applications and sitting interviews.