Apprentice Civil Engineering technician Review

I am an Apprentice Civil Engineering Technician for Costain Ltd, I am entrusted with varied roles, these include: provision of setting out informations and built levels of work to be completed, liaising with other members of the Costain team as well as the wider joint venture team, suppliers, sub contractors to ensure the wortks are completed as per relevant specifications and within scheduled programming. The role is extremely active, there is very rarely a quiet moment. I have had tyhe opportunity to work on two prestigious projects: Peacehaven Wastewater Treatment Works which included the installation of the largest green roof in Europe at the time of construction, and currently working on Crossrail C360 project which is an excellent opportunity to be a part of an infrastructure project that is set to change the country and improve peoples lives in terms of travelling around the city.

The new skills i have learnt are endless, to name a few of the skills and courses: Pasma - mobile scaffold tower erecrtion and inspection IFE - injury free environment AED - CPR and external automated defibrillator training abrasive wheels Working at height Harness awareness behavioural safety for supervisors Cat and Genny - cable avoidance training DIDAC overhead crane operator Tunnell and underground safety card LOLER lifting operations and lifting equipment regs PUWER Regulations Information security and Data protection In addition to these completed courses (im sure there are more) i have the opportunity to apply the technical learning i am gaining from college in a practical way which is essential in making myself a more valuable member of the team. I am working towards a level 3 technical certificate as well as a level 3 NVQ in construction contracting operations, this will give me the platform to proceed onto a HNC, HND or higher apprenticeship. I have learnt a lot about how to manage people, how to overcome the problems faced by management, how to improve the safety culture of the people around me and create a safer environement for the people around me to work within. Costain have ensured and i am sure they will continue to ensure i have the appropriate training to progress at a pace i am comfortable with.

I can honestly say i enjoy almost every aspect of the programme. The team i work with were and continue to be very welcoming irelavent of my initial lack of experience. The culture of the company is excellent, i feel that i am essential part of the team rather than just a number and i am just as important as any other member, i genuinely feel that whatever i need to progress will vbe provided for me as long as i put in 110% in return.

i have covered this in the previous section.

the structure of the programme is ever improving but overall, i have found it to be excellent. As i have mentioned, the training and support is always readily available. There is a training matrix available that outlines the training that is expected to be completed at different levels of your career, in addition to this, there are often internal courses run to improve my knowledge or understanding of key aspects of the site. I have a Mentor who is never too far away to answer any questions abnd push me in the right direction. I have developed a close relationship with him and feel that i have all the support needed.

i have a good relationship with my college tutors and also the NVQ guidance team, any questions that cannot be answered by people on site can be answered by these and the NVQ support is essential.

More than enough ! Ask for it and its there ! i have never felt afraid to approach any member of the Costain team from engineers and foreman right up to agents and directors.

In terms of tyhe minimimumk wage for apprentices my Slary package is extremely generous, far over and above what i am legally entitled to. I dont think you could possibly quantify the value of training and education but my take home pay is also very good for my level. I have regular reviews with HR and site management where we discuss what i should achieve in the forthcoming 6 month period to ensure i am progressing at the correct speed, These reviews lead to salary increases. My expenses are covered sufficiently, i am currently working away from home with all my accomodation, living and travel costs covered by the company so my salary is still mine to spend as i wish at the end of the month.

There are many events outsuide of work that we are encouraged to attend, present at or get involved with in some other way, with each of these giving an opportunity to learn or gain something to further my career. Costain are heavily involved with the ICE (institute of civil engineers) and encourage employee involvement where it is relevant, the costs for any such events and membership are often covered by Costain also. We have a very good relationship with the local community and are often involved in activities involving them, this may include sports activities and charity events. The team within the project i am wokring on also like to get out once a weeka nd play football on the local 5 a side pitch which is an excellent opportunity to get to know your team further and improve relationships, whilst also letting your hair down and enjoying yourself after work.

Yes

I think apprenticeships are an excellent opportunity to gain an education aswell as experience in a career that really interests you. I personally left school with very pioor academic qualifications through not focussing when it counted. An apprenticeship gave me the 'second chance' i needed to gain a career whilst earning at the same time.

be open and honest at all interviews and assessments. Remember that interviews are an excellent opportunity for you to ask an employer what they can do for you and what you can expect from them.