Civil Engineer Apprentice Review

My Role as a Civil Engineer Apprentice involves working on site on the Stubbington By pass, getting involved hands on with the job. I really enjoy it and it also boosts my knowledge using the equipment and learning how things are done on site as well as watching how a project builds from start to finish. I have learnt many things, including the importance of the role as an Engineer on a project, making sure the leveling of the ground being built on is correct, working out what kinds of materials will need to be used and how much, locating any services or things which may be a problem during the construction process, I have also been out on site with sub contractors taking CBR tests throughout the By pass to test the condition of the ground we are going to be constructing on etc.

I have learnt how to use testing equipment such as: -CAT & Genny Scanner (I have completed the HSG47 training course on Radiodetection GCAT & Genny 4 for location and avoidance of underground cables and pipes. and earned the Leven 2 award during my time on site) -Dumpy level equipment -Laser equipment also used to measure levels -GPS used for staking out points and finding specific points within the project as it has the model for the By pass we are working on shown in the GPS -AutoCAD, using this on a day to day basis to plot points onto the model where I have identified appropriate areas to place stations within the By pass. -BIM360 - I have touched on LSS which is a modelling software used by the designer. -Surveying using equipment -Improved Excel skills

I thoroughly enjoy the Apprenticeship I am doing it is my passion. Studying in the Leeds college of building was a big part of it as it helped establish the key knowledge needed for working on site. However, working on site opens up plenty of other opportunities to build my knowledge, working hands on and being taught and shown how everything is done, also being given responsibilities which challenge me and improve my skills. After being given responsibility with certain tasks on the job it has built my confidence and helped me grow within this role, as I have better understanding.

It is very well organised, and the key contacts we have been given if we have any problems or questions, are very reliable. I feel more confident and comfortable doing this Apprenticeship, as I know how well the company take care of their employees, guiding them through the right path and giving complete support when needed.

I receive all the support needed, if i have any questions or problems, there are many reliable contacts and sources I can turn to. Other employees or my employer are able to help and guide me if I am struggling. And make sure every now and then how I am doing. They also give me reassurance, that if I need help I am able to turn to them and they will offer support. It is a great and comfortable environment to be in.

Again, all the support that is needed, is provided by our training provider when working towards our qualifications. There are many sources as well, which BAM have provided in their hub (BAM Connect) which also help with our qualifications as it includes data and information which is relevant to our course.

My qualification helps a lot with my role as it built the foundation knowledge I needed understanding how construction technology works, materials used and what to consider when choosing a material to construct with, the different roles which are found on a project for example: sub contractors, designers, engineers, worksmen, the project manager, foremen, section foremen, agents, section engineers etc. and then coming on site to work, I has some understanding. After working for a couple of weeks my knowledge built a large amount and I had much better understanding whilst working.

There are professional networking events, as well as everyone on site every now and then getting together and going out for a social dinner. There is currently a plan being put together for everyone to do a charity cycle ride 114 miles from the site to the head office in Camberly.

Yes

It is a great company to work for, very supportive and takes care of their employees. Every employee/employer I have come across so far are very friendly and BAM is like a large family where all the employees get together during the networking events, giving you the chance to meet each other, and the director of BAM occasionally hold a seminar where he makes sure the employees know about the company and the company plans, goals and morals. They provide many opportunities to grow with in the company and many opportunities to expand your knowledge in whichever role you choose to take in the company.

-To be yourself - Express your passion for the role you choose to apply for - Don't be afraid to share any ideas you may have, everyone is open to consideration and respect the thoughts of each others ideas - Think about what you could also offer to the company if taking a role (for example, creativity) - Think why you're choosing the role and what it means to you - Appreciate the role you are given as it is a great opportunity, so keep on top of your work, and don't be afraid to ask for help if needed or asking questions if you aren't sure about something, as this also helps expand your knowledge and understanding