CAD Estimator Review

My role as a CAD Estimator is to effectively deliver CAD layout drawings, cost estimates and quotations to internal project managers and external customers. The role requires me to provide guidance and support to the accompanying functions: operations, commercial and procurement. Key Responsibilities - Designing effective building solutions, suitable for the project needs and requirements - Provide transparent, honest, and informative information to aid decision making - Consultation with operations to deliver on my promises subject to production slots, labour, and delivery schedule - Collate competitive quotations through relatable market rates - Provide full project handovers to operations and commercial managers - Continuous improvement of standard specification within our accommodation

The role has enabled me to improve an array of qualities including problem solving, priority setting, creativity, customer service and business improvement. My apprenticeship has enabled me to improve numerous skills having to show competence in certain subjects such as; organisational strategy, project management, business finance, communication, leading people, managing people, self awareness, decision making etc.

My programme has concluded now however it was enjoyable. Assignments are stressful and can require a lot of time, but this sacrifice is worth the reward when you pass the assignment/module/course. I take satisfaction from learning new things and being able to add greater value, so my sense of enjoyment came from being more equipped to work towards my career goals.

My OU structure was fantastic, faultless in fact. It was clear each week the work what was required and you could also see the whole breakdown of the module for the 5 months they were running. There was separate areas such as the library, forums, additional webinars etc. all of which helped to completing the necessary work.

My line managers were really supportive throughout the whole process. I was given 1 day per week to undertake my studies which was really appreciated. Without this day, it would've been a big burden on my personal life trying to complete all of the work necessary. Whenever required to give feedback/support a project/assist with obtaining information, my line managers would be more than happy to assist.

As part of the apprenticeship degree with the OU, you're assigned a practice tutor. The purpose of this tutor is to support you in obtaining your apprenticeship degree through collectively working to satisfy the pre-define criterion in the apprenticeship standard. To do so, my tutor and I had bi-weekly calls to discuss this but also upcoming assignments. Without these the process wouldve been much more difficult.

Undertaking my studies whilst working full time has taught me the value of good time management, managing expectations and organisation skills generally. More specifically, my confidence to handle day-to-day problems and larger projects has improved. I am now confident in communicating via different channels, leading others, developing collaborative relationships and and decision making.

Yes, as part of the apprenticeship scheme they encourage you to partake in activities such as the brathay challenge, raising money for the princes trust, Duke of Edinburgh whilst also more locally each site will have their own things going on which you can partake in should you wish ok.

Yes

Balfour Beatty has given me the opportunity to earn and learn. I have been employed by BB for 7 years undertaking various roles and apprenticeships. I initially undertook NVQ's in business administration before moving onto my apprenticeship degree. I don't believe there are many other organisations which would support young people on this journey. I have been able to progress in my career, in my education but also as a person.

My advice to others thinking about applying to BB would be; do it. If you're a young person who is wanting to gain real life work experience whilst continuing to learn this is the place to be. Not only is this the place to be for apprentices, BB can offer you a career for life.