Apprentice Civil Engineer Review

Every day is a different day and that's what makes it more enjoyable! Typically my day to day tasks involve setting out, marking out lines and levels, producing as built surveys using total stations and various other equipment. Off site and in the office my tasks include filing safety documents, assist with producing permits, using spreadsheets and working on CAD.

I have developed my interpersonal skills by being able to work on site with various different people which has boost my confidence. I have also developed my knowledge further whilst working on site and I have also participated in training courses which allows me to use specialist equipment and software.

This apprenticeship is exactly what I was looking for, it was the best decision I made! Everyone I have met from working on site, in the office and even at college whilst doing my training has been extremely helpful, supportive and patient. Many of my colleagues and seniors chose the apprenticeship route too, they are very accommodative and make me feel valued to the team.

The apprenticeship programme is well structured and clear. Having one college block a year is benefiting as you can fully concentrate on work or on college. Although the 9 week college block is intense, the college was very supportive. The programme helps with your career progression which is encouraged by the company.

Support is very easy to access both in college and on site. The apprenticeship team stay in contact regularly and provide guidance and answer any question we may have. On site I have mentors and key people who offer support whenever is it needed, which is comforting and also in college I have an assigned mentor who ensures I am on track whist working on site.

During college block the lecturers were always available for one to one calls and responded to messages or emails if I had any questions or queries. Some lecturers would spend extra time after college as I wanted to ensure I fully understood the content, which was very kind and supportive.

The college block has provided a good foundation for my work on site. Although starting on site was quite overwhelming at first, I started to pickup things I had learnt at college in practice which made me feel like I had some understanding of what was going on. The college work covers a broad range of topics, however site work can be very specific depending on the site you work on, so it may feel like some elements of the college block may not be relevant.

Out of work I like to socialise with my collogues, to end the week on Fridays I take part in the staff football. There are also many local community events and voluntary initiatives to take part in. As part of the qualification, we are also encouraged to attend professional events such as seminars set up by the ICE which provide networking opportunities.

Yes

BAM is a great company that looks after it's employees, in particular the apprentices. The apprenticeship is rewarding both from a career point of view and financial point of view. There is excellent scope to progress within the company in the future with opportunities to live and work all over the country, which is a very exciting prospect.

Research about the company and the various different projects they have done as well as the job role you are applying for - This will show your interest for construction. Understand the key values of the company and how you can adapt to them to become the best version of it. The interview is an opportunity for you to get a feel for the company, so make sure you take the chance to ask lot's of questions. Finally, just be yourself and show passion for construction!