Apprentice Project Manager Review

I am on a Higher Level Project Management Apprenticeship and on a day to day basis I try to shadow an experienced Project Manager and try to apply my learning into the workplace. I work in a team of around 9 people and I constantly keep in touch with a career mentor and a tutor from QA.

The training provided for the Project Management course is world class! The tutor is amazing and has tons of experience. He is also very helpful and insightful. I also have access to an internal portal full of skill development courses and training. I have gained a lot of insight on how the business works and knowledge about the role and the field.

I really like the training and I like the CGI culture and CGI as a company. I do find it challenging sometimes working on the project but that is entirely due to the nature of the project and complicated structures and processes that the client wants us to follow but that isn't CGI's fault - in fact CGI are very understanding and helpful of this so even this experience has been great as it teaches you how to work in difficult environments.

CGI is a member based organisation so I don't feel like there are unnecessary hierarchy. I can easily get a hold of senior management and attend meetings and events with senior officials. My manager is also very helpful and has regular interaction with me making sure that I am okay.

The training is very well organised with regular meetings with my assessor.

My tutor is always just an email or a phone call away. He is very helpful and goes over and beyond to make sure that I get the right support and guidance.

I have a really good mentor who looks after me. Everyone in the company is really helpful and always open to talk to. I feel like I can reach anyone and talk to anybody without being judged or intimidated. The vibe in the CGI offices are also good.

The salary is good, it is paid at the national minimum thus far but it will increase once the apprenticeship is completed. I do sometimes find it difficult to cover living costs but that's purely because of the lifestyle I have and the choices I make to invest my wages in getting other opportunities. The salary I get should be enough for most people. Travel costs are also compensated for. There are also lots of social budgets to claim from.

There are often emails encouraging us to take part in opportunities outside of work. There are lots of groups and clubs. Lots of partners who support outreach programs.

Yes

Good company, good salary, good support, good vibe, good people. All round a great company.

Be proactive and look for opportunities within the company. Be yourself and let your skills and knowledge shine. Always be a leader and take control of things. Be open to learning new things and developing new skills.