Civil Engineering Degree Level Apprentice Review

I design infrastructure for the rail industry. This includes railway station improvements, lineside civil structures and re-signalling schemes. The majority of the work is undertaken through CAD software and involves constant communication between yourself and the lead engineer. The design work is mainly based on you following the relevant British, client and company standards and applying these to practical circumstances.

I have developed my CAD skills where I have learnt to model various structure. I have learnt how to structure an engineering drawing and what is needed to be included on them. I have been introduced to and I am developing my report writing skills as each stage of a project has a different report that needs creating.

I enjoy the variety of the programme. There is something different to do every day and every project has its differences. You engage with various people and develop a reliable and supportive professional network. I was unsure when starting if the path I had chosen was right one however after a couple of weeks, I was deeply satisfied that this is the place for me to develop as a professional person.

The programme so far has been really well structured and adjusted in order for me to develop and continue learning after finishing college. I have a group within the work place that support me and teach me the skills for my day job and then the course from my training provider builds upon my broader knowledge. The team is set up to develop young professionals including apprentices and graduates.

I have always had the support from my employer. If someone is unable to help me with something, they know who to point me towards in order for me to get what I need. I regularly catch up both formally and informally with my line manger who supports me through my university course, day-to-day job and makes sure I have no outstanding issues.

I receive all the support I need through my training provider. The actual content is taught at a good pace and the all the tutors are on hand at all times to answer individual questions. There are regular meetings between myself, my line manager and a university representative to discuss my progress and raise any concerns.

To date, very little of the course has had no relevance to my day-to-day job. However, it has broadened my view of the industry and has allowed me to develop a deeper understanding of the industry. I have already identified the modules that will be relevant to my job and I am looking forward to studying and engaging with them.

There is a great sports and social network within Mott MacDonald. We regularly have lunches that are covered by the company, go for team drinks and engage in social activities such as rock climbing and go-karting. Every year, the company has Sports Day which brings together everyone from UK offices with the costs covered by the company. These events are great to develop contacts in different sectors in business.

Yes

There is a great culture within the company. Everyone works hard whilst retaining a social atmosphere. The structure to develop apprentices/ graduates is really strong, everyone is wanting you to succeed. There is great flexibility to, whether that be your working hours or what project you want to work on, things can be discussed and changed.

Understand where your strengths are as there is at least one sector of the business that they could be of use to. Make sure you are aware of the issues and technologies of the modern world and how they affect the workplace. Demonstrate your passions and how you have developed as a person in order to work in the role you want to.