Civil Apprentice Review

My role is to assist the engineers in their jobs within the project and also undertaking tasks of my own and working to a deadline , these include amending drawings on CAD and creating my own for a given specification, attending sit visits to take surveys on structures and amending and writing reports. There is also a chance to become a member of various communities which you can get involved in in your spare time.

Yes, I have developed my report writing skills and also my team working skills, working in a team filled with many different specialists communication is key. Along with Computer Aided Design (CAD) of all aspects. I have also matured as a person, as working in a professional environment changes your outlook and how others view you, first impressions definitely count.

I thoroughly enjoy the programme which I have undertaken. It is so practical and interesting, it is never boring with new challenges to face every week. Meeting new faces and having the chance to travel to different offices to work is always exciting. The support which I receive day in and day out is also encouraging.

The organisation and structure of the programme is well thought out to suit you as an individual, and if you aren't happy Arup will do anything to sort it out and get you back on track. You are assigned a mentor and a buddy who you can ask any question you have.

The support received from my employer during my apprenticeship is phenomenal, I couldn't ask for any more, they are so supportive and always encouraging me to go further. You are assigned a line manager, mentor and a buddy, they are all there to provide you with a support network whenever you need help.

Within College the support network is different as to when in the office as they have lots of other students to deal with, however they try their best with the resources which they have. Tutors visit you place of work to get an understanding of your working environment which helps to link your training course to your daily working environment.

The qualification which I am undertaking in college helps me to understand the wider impact of the work I am doing within the office and we are all connected together working as a wider team in a multi disciplinary environment. It helps me to understand the background work of the construction industry.

The social aspect at Arup is the best which I have seen within a company , they have weekly clubs like football, arts and crafts etc and then there are also monthly activities that happen for example a pub quiz, a treasure hunt around Cardiff, and many more along with Annual events like the big christmas party, Arup football tournament which involves offices from all over the UK.

Yes

The experiences I have had within Arup in the short time in which I have been here has been fantastic. Anyone who wishes to enter the world of engineering should consider Arup, as they are a global organisation that offer so many opportunities whatever that may be, with a variety of disciplines all under one roof.

The advice I would give someone who is applying to Arup is be yourself. Arup is a company who value their employers and want the best for them, be open and communicate what you are interested in with your hobbies and they will find a place that best suits you.