Civil Engineering Design Degree Apprentice Review

At current, I am mainly doing CAD related tasks, using CAD software to model out structures that may be required by a client or used to create drawings that can be used during projects. I can also occasionally be called upon to produce documents that will go out for procurement.

I have massively developed my skills and competency with various CAD software's used by the business that I previously had little experience with. I have also developed my excel skills and also my document management/communications skills whilst having to adapt to new software and processes required by the role.

I find my program quite enjoyable, I am always granted enough leave to ensure university commitments are met, and the company is very flexible with working hours. I think the work is fun as well, as doing CAD models can feel very rewarding when it all comes together to completion.

This is a very well structured program with 5 lots of placements around the business all lasting one year to complete the 5 year program. This allows the apprentice to get a good knowledge and understanding of various areas of the business and allows them to make an informed decision as to their future at the end.

There is lots of support available from the company, both at a team level where team members and line manager are available to help, and also at a company wide level where there are dedicated tools/hotlines for use if you are in need of assistance. I am also well supported through my degree.

Being a degree apprentice on day release, it does not feel like the training provider gives enough attention to the fact we only attend university once a week, and often overlook the level of knowledge we may/may not have. There are also less help opportunities and less accessible support available to us.

As a base, I think that working through my current qualification is very ideal to generally develop my understanding and knowledge of real-world engineering and the factors affecting it. Furthermore I think that in future placements there will be opportunities to directly apply skills learnt through my qualification to every day work.

There are occasional opportunities of company social events, and there are also quite a few opportunities to professionally network at events. The company also provides a lot of webinar type classes that can be on a wide variety of topics that all aid to help professional skill development that can be applied. There is also the opportunity to do the Duke of Edinburgh Gold award and also the Brathay Apprentice Challenge.

Yes

I think that Balfour Beatty is a good company to work for, especially as an apprentice, they have a massive focus on new talent, with a dedicated department ensuring that all apprentices and graduates are well supported and events are put on etc. I also think the placement schemes are a very good idea.

I would recommend ensuring you have researched the field that the job role is within, as well as making sure you fully understand the company values and what they're looking for at the hiring process. I would also make sure you are very comfortable as to why you want the role.