Apprentice Review

Working on project that require mechanical design input, as well as this I work within 3D modelling programs such as Revit to produce BIM models which I am responsible for updating, managing and issuing to the client. Any project drawings are extracted from the model and formatted to suit by myself. Along with this I have had to write multiple report, training manuals and other project supporting documents. I am also responsible for the updating of the model onto the project CDE to allow the client to view the stage that the project is at, this is don't by myself in Navisworks on a bi-weekly basis

I have developed many of my existing skills which I learnt previously around 3D modelling and have applied them on a daily basis in the project I am working on which has no become a pivotal aspect of the project and a deliverable to the client. it has helped me develop my skills within the software to a point at which I can pioneer new methods of working within the team, as well as other technical and soft skills.

From the point of view of how I feel about the work side of my programme within arup I am extremely satisfied and receive their full support in all of my endeavours, however the only let down would be from the standpoint of my NVQ training provider as that experience hasn't been so good, however senior members of my team are trying to resolve this.

The program has a general structure however I think that it could be more defined and have a better track of the path for an apprentice and the options out there to avoid them getting categorised at a young age and become more equal to the graduate scheme which is much more refined.

Arup are extremely supportive and have supported everything I have taken on within my time since joining, there is always someone there to help if you need it and are willing to ask. Everyone within the team is treated equally meaning anyone from a grad to higher management and other apprentices are their to support the best they can.

I cannot comment on other peoples experience but I have had an unpleasant one with my current training provider in which multiple people have had to be involved to try and solve the problems which has been very frustrating and I am still awaiting on the completion of my apprenticeship even though I have completed things well in advanced, this could possibly hold up me going onto further education which I am very unhappy about.

It does help in some aspects, however it seems less aimed at a technical apprenticeship which is design and office based and more towards other works which make be more hands on experiences meaning sometimes the questions can be difficult to gather evidence for, this means you have to find creative solutions around the problems to suit your job role and workplace.

There are multiple options for extra canicular activities in Arup from games and film nights to sports events and drink/meals out. Each team also generally organises their own things as well as the overall company invites to allow for team bonding outside of the workplace to form a very inclusive environments in which I have formed long lasting friendships both with current employees and ones who have moved on.

Yes

ARUP is one of the most supportive and inclusive environments I could ever imagine working in and I would recommend it to anyone at any stage of their careers as it is full of different people with a variety of knowledge and experiences to learn from and work along side.

the main things is to be yourself and honest about what you can and cannot do as their is no judgement on peoples ability as long as they show interest and willingness to learn, there are people with many different background and personal experiences who are willing to help and guide people through.