National Apprenticeship Week 2017

06/03/17

To celebrate NAW2017, we asked James Robinson for his thoughts on the Apprenticeship route into the industry. James began his Apprenticeship programme with Adept in 2014 and is currently studying for BTEC Level 4 Civil Engineering at Leeds College of Building.

• James Robinson, Civil Engineering Technician
• Adept Apprentice: 2014 – date
• Level 4 BTEC HNC Diploma in Construction & the Built Environment (Civil Engineering), Leeds College if Building, 2016-2017
• Level 3 BTEC National Diploma in Civil Engineering, Leeds College of Building, 2014-2016

” I would urge school leavers to get involved in one of the many rewarding careers in construction and engineering through the Apprenticeship Programme. With a skills shortage of STEM professionals, an Apprenticeship is a rewarding route to encourage more students into this profession, and earn whilst they are learning.”

 

 

Role: Production of Drawings, Basic Calculations – I work on a variety of job sizes from small housing developments to big warehouse complexes such as NEXT 58,000sq ft automated warehouse in Doncaster. I use various programmes such as Civils 3D and micro drainage.

Why did you chose to work at Adept: I researched into what sectors the company worked for and was interested in everything they are involved in and wanted to be a part of that. Also I wanted to be part of a skilful team, where colleagues share their knowledge and skills with me, which I can then use in my own professional development.

What is the best thing about working at Adept? There are always opportunities for me to develop in my professional career. Adept care about my personal development and if I require training in a certain area they will be willing to make sure I receive it. The team of skilled engineers are always willing to lend a helping hand when needed and overall it is a friendly environment to work in.

Would you recommend the Apprenticeship scheme? Yes. It is a great way to gain industry experience whilst being paid. It also opens up doors to progress your career from an early stage as you are always learning new things on the job, and you have a greater opportunity to move on with your career as you have gained so much experience.

Would you recommend Engineering as a career?  Yes. Engineering is an industry that is always growing. It also opens your eyes to all the stages that are needed to create such super structures we see in our day to day lives and give you an insight on how they are designed for the interest of the people who are using the superstructure to the environment around it. It can also bring you the opportunities to work abroad as the construction industry is booming all around the world giving you more possibility to be involved in projects worldwide.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time? I see myself earning a technician membership from the ICE and also starting to lead my own projects.

As firm supporters of Apprenticeship Scheme, Adept have been lucky enough to train our home grown staff from Apprentices up to fully qualified engineers running their own projects. We are very proud of all our Apprentices and the great work they are doing.