Digital Construction Apprentice Review

My job role includes working with the 3D models of the projects building to be constructed to assist in coordination of said models and ensuring the data associated with each model meets the clients requirements. I also have one dedicated college day each week and have other time set aside each day/week to complete further college work or revision etc.

I have learnt a huge amount of new skills and knowledge during my first 6 months of apprenticeship. I have had training on several computer software programmes to aid in the model coordination for my role, in addition to the development of new knowledge surrounding the wider construction field as well as my role specifically.

I have thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of my apprenticeship, I chose the role as digital construction is striving to create a more modern environment for the industry and to create efficiencies in terms of sustainability as well as productivity across all professions involved in the construction of new buildings and refurbishments.

My programme has been well structured thus far with one dedicated day per week to have an online lecture with an exam at the end of each unit. We have also had block leaves whereby we attend the college for specialist training in a particular software or skill, e.g. surveying, which could be anywhere from 3 days to 2 weeks spent in the college.

My employers are as supportive as I need, they are aware of the time that needs to be set aside for the college work to be completed and are happy for me to arrange the time I require to be set aside to ensure that all of the work is completed to a high standard. They are also on hand if I require their more hands on assistance with any of this work and they have made it clear that I need only ask for their help.

The training providers are equally on hand to help with any queries that arise and offer at the end of each session to stay behind to help anyone further. They have also provided useful feedback for any mock exams we have undertaken in preparation for actual exams coming up.

Working in the construction industry for the first time can feel overwhelming at times as there is a vast amount of thought, planning and knowledge that goes into any project. The qualification I am working towards brings a lot of these areas together and helps to create an understanding of what goes into the building of a project. This knowledge has been vital in helping to understand the different roles and what they do within a project team.

Since joining Kier myself and the digital construction team have been on a professional networking event with a team from one of the software packages that we use to give us more of an insight into what their goals are and how they can help on our project. These events, while still in a professional setting, are not only useful but really enjoyable as it does allow for a more social environment to get to know the people I am working with better.

Yes

I would absolutely recommend Kier to a friend who was thinking of applying for a role here. They have been brilliant across the board since joining and I have several contacts who I can approach if needed, for anything from my job role, to college or professional development.

My advice would be to do some research into what Kier are achieving and trying to achieve further, and understand that they are striving to create a better environment across the industry. Once you have an understanding of their goals try and align these with your own goals and demonstrate how working together would be of benefit to both yourself and the company.