Apprentice Highways Engineer Review

As an apprentice highways engineer my role largely involves the use of CAD. I regularly produce drawings and models and I am often responsible for my own package of work. Depending on the project you might find yourself digging into detailed design and methodically working through issues, or you may be in a fast paced environment on site, responding to technical queries from the contractor as they build your design. Both are very rewarding.

My communication and confidence have improved massively by working as part on an interdisciplinary design team. Working as part of a large team to deliver a design is very interesting and fulfilling. I have also developed my design skills and know how to use various software packages to aid in design.

I thoroughly enjoy coming to work, and the projects i work on are engaging and teach me new skills, as well as providing insight into the industry. I would prefer some more structured training to go alongside everything else however this is starting to pick up now as we return to normal after Covid.

The structure when i began was almost non existent, however over the past 3 years it has improved drastically. There is still a long way to go and a general lack of understanding around what an apprentice is and what support they need however, in recent years there has been an increased awareness and training for line managers of apprentices to ensure there is a support network.

Personally my line manager has been extremely supportive and has previous experience with apprentices. Training is now being provided to any line manager of an apprentice as well as increasing awareness of apprenticeship requirements and the level of support needed. Training courses aimed at apprenticeships and graduates are also being developed.

my training provider has not been especially helpful over the course of my Degree apprenticeship. they have forgotten to send start dates resulting in me missing a week. they have not communicated as regularly with my employer as they initially committed to. Despite this, they have shown signs of improvement in the last year or so, I feel this is too late for me however for cohorts starting from 21/22 onwards it appears they are now better placed to support apprentices.

My degree has not related to my day to day working much. It is helpful to have the knowledge and understanding of various subjects and encourages thinking like an engineer however, the subjects covered have not interested me as much as my day job. This may be different for others though.

Pre covid there was lots on from various groups including lunch and learns, after work sports activities as well as regular night out. This is much quieter now due to Covid and flexible home working, i do think this will pick up though as more people choose to return to the office.

Yes

Its a great company to work for. Arcadis promotes a very friendly and inclusive atmosphere. There are many benefits available to employees ranging from discounts on shopping to private health care. Arcadis heavily promotes it's 'people first' attitude and it shows, we have good staff retention and everyone I've spoke to says they prefer Arcadis to previous employees.

I think one of the keys to applying is to try and really show your enthusiasm for the role. Grades are important but to me at least, these are secondary to personality. If you are driven and engaged in your work you will thrive. Any work experience you can get would also be helpful in showing your commitment and enthusiasm, I did two separate one week placements at companies to get a flavour for engineering and it only made me more determined to secure an apprenticeship in engineering. I believe this advice would also apply to other industries too.