Apprentive Project Manager Review

No two days are the same for me within Arup. I largely support the Programme and Project Management team, who work on a variety of different sized projects. one day I could be working on a programme of works for a bid proposal, and the next be managing contractors on site.

The main skills I have developed are my softer skills. This is because I am constantly working with different people, of different ages and across multiple disciplines. My communication and team work skills have greatly developed since I first of all started - which in turn has increased my confidence in the workplace.

I really enjoy the apprenticeship that I am in the middle of completing. What I enjoy, is the level of independence I get within projects, whilst always knowing support is there if I need it at all. The college learning has really helped me understand the theory behind the tasks I am doing.

My programme initially had trouble with my college course, due to cancellation of modules and changing college locations all the time - meaning sometimes I had to travel to the other end of the county for classes. this has no reflection on Arup, and the fault was with the training provider.

My employer gives me support everyday. I am challenged and pushed to do independent work, whilst my colleagues are always around myself, supporting me, if I have any questions or queries that just need clarifying. My employer also is supportive in allowing my dedicated time in the week to undertake coursework.

Except from the previously stated issues with the training provider, the courses were very beneficial and taught me the theory that I can apply to the work I do. Once a month we have a review meeting with the training provider, where we review the previous months work and set targets for the next month.

The classroom learning that I had, has provided me with the theory behind the work I do. This theory means I have confidence behind the tasks I am being asked to complete. Also, the work I would do at Arup would help in the classroom so I would have an example to help me understand what they were teaching me.

At Arup there are a huge range of extra curricular activities to participate in. Within my time here, I have been part of the football team (who train every Thursday) and played in tournaments against other offices. I have also been on the Graduate Skiing trip, which I really enjoyed.

Yes

Arup has given me the opportunities to work on a range of projects (across multiple disciples), that have all helped me push myself outside of my comfort zone. they are giving my independence, which has helped develop my softer, people skills. The confidence I have gained from this is huge.

I would advise people applying to be motivated to want to achieve a qualification, alongside working full time. On interview days, I would also advise the applicant to be themselves and relax. this way the interviewer can fully understand who they are as a person. Coming in with soft skills would also help.