Civil Engineering Degree Apprentice Review

Currently I work in a technical advisory team. Some of my work includes feasibility studies, project management, procurement and employer representation during construction. Each day I work with my team, often in meetings or 1 to 1 calls. It is a collaborative role. I work on a range of public sector projects.

I have developed my communication skills and confidence a lot since starting my apprenticeship. I have started to occasionally lead in meetings, take responsibility for certain tasks and assist my team where they need support. I also believe that I am becoming more motivated in my university work as it helps develop my on the job understanding.

I am enjoying my programme. There is a wide range of training available and a large supportive apprentice network within the company. All apprentices are seem approachable and friendly. I also have a supportive team. I enjoy the new opportunities that I am giving and working on projects that make a difference.

I believe my programme is well organised. I am able to go to university once a week without having to worry about my work load. I also am able to ask for study leave in before exams. My employer also aims to rotate me around different teams so I will have a wide ranging, varied understanding of civil engineering.

I receive a lot of support from my employer. There are lots of apprentices that are approachable for support. I also have support from my team, with lots of experienced engineers able to give support. Other than my university, I am also enrolled onto an internal training programme which aims to boost my workplace skills and my wellbeing.

Coventry University is fairly supportive. Lecturers seem to be friendly and approachable, replying to emails and answering questions in lectures. They also monitor my off the job learning to ensure I am meeting the apprenticeship requirements. Each quarter, I have a one to one meeting with the university to ensure that I am progressing well. Occasionally I find the requirements from university are vague.

University has developed my understanding of the construction industry. I can apply this to my work. With the nature of any university course, what I am learning, does not always align with what I am working on. I am looking forward to future modules that will do this. University has given me some professional skills and understanding that will help me to progress through my apprenticeship.

There are regular social activities at work that I enjoy getting involved in. These are varied and have allowed me to try new things. It has also helped me to make friends at work and meet people in an informal setting. Social activities have been really beneficial for me. Some of these are organised through work, or, casually.

Yes

I think Mott MacDonald has a great workplace culture. There are lots of supportive colleagues and a good apprenticeship programme. I believe the apprenticeship has pushed me further than full-time university would. Before my apprenticeship, I was worried about my work-life balance, however, I still have the opportunity to maintain this both in side and outside of the workplace.

I would advice people joining Mott MacDonald to work hard on their application and reflect themselves. I would advice not to be afraid to ask questions during the interview. It is important to show your interest in the career while also reflecting your values and skills. I would recommend researching the company to see where your values align.