n National Apprenticeship Week
constructionmanagement.co.uk
Meet construction’s new generation
Ahead of National Apprenticeship Week this month, CM asked apprentices from across the construction industry why they have chosen a career in the sector
Kyle Marzan, estimating apprentice, Wates “I was instantly drawn to the great benefits that apprenticeships offer – I can gain my qualification and experience at the same time. The fact that I would have no student debt was definitely a win for me! “What I love about it is working in a fast-paced environment where everything is developing and progressing very quickly. I love the variety – every project and every day is different. “What I would say to someone thinking about a career in the built environment is to research all the different career paths that the industry has to offer and to gain as much experience in a variety of different areas
as this will help you find where you fit best and what you most enjoy. But most of all, when deciding on your career path it is fundamentally important to enjoy what you do. “Work experience is also very valuable – you will never know if your chosen career path is right for you until you have tried it. “I enjoy being able to work with a range of different people and in different environments, as well having my own responsibilities which make me feel part of a team and that I am making an impact. I am focused on progressing my career forward from an apprentice estimator to an estimating manager.”
Alex O’Shea, apprentice estimator, Sir Robert McAlpine “I have always wanted to go into a professional workplace, rather than doing the typical university experience. An apprenticeship is a great way of both learning about different career paths within the industry while getting stuck in with work. “Sir Robert McAlpine came across as very welcoming and open and the company is synonymous with building some significant landmarks. It seemed like a perfect place to both work and achieve my degree. The best thing about working here is the knowledge you can draw from a great team of people.
“My day consists of lots of commercial meetings, lots of collaborative work, pricing aspects of construction, interfacing with subcontractors, preparing works packages. “I have been fortunate to work on numerous projects, some of which include state-of-the-art university accommodation to highly sophisticated research and science facilities. “I am lucky to have a chance to work in a renowned company that has a family-oriented environment and I really do feel like I am learning about construction at its finest and getting to work on some exciting projects.”
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