Trainee Civil Engineer Review

I work with a range of departments in the project to ensure any technical queries and early warnings raised by the designer are answered. I also support the design management team with technically assuring design documentation. Prior to this I worked in the land team ensuring the correct land for the project was acquired.

I have learnt a range of new skills whilst on the project. Particularly, I have developed my confidence and communication skills in a range of scenarios. I have developed my personal management skills and overall understanding of the technicalities that must be considered when managing the design for a large construction project.

I have enjoyed the two and a half years I have spent on my apprenticeship so far. I have worked with really supportive people and my teams have helped me to develop. We have had to overcome the challenges of lockdown along the way but I have still enjoyed my experience so far.

Our programme has been well organised and the team have worked to ensure we receive the best learning despite some hiccups with our previous provider. I have a clear direction in terms of my degree and ICE progress however I think it would have been good to have more direction in terms of what teams I should engage with in the workplace when starting out.

I feel largely supported by my employer. They listen and support me with any problems I may have in all aspects. We have regular contact with them despite our cohort being spread over a range of projects. Concerns are addressed quickly and we have a range of people to contact if we may need support.

Our training provider changed midway through the programme so some aspects are still coming together in terms of the logistics of our new programme. So far, I feel the new provider has supported us with sufficient resource and support where needed and have dealt with the transition to the new institution relatively smoothly.

I enjoy what I am studying at university. I feel the knowledge we gain is quite general and technical. I feel this would support me more in a design role than in my current role that is less technical. I don't think much of what has been taught will support me when working on site.

There are a number of extra curricular activities where I work. There are regular socials within teams and a range of networks to join. We have a women's network, ability network, diversity network, LGBTQIA network and several early careers networks. I have participated in several of these and have really enjoyed the events I have attended.

Yes

Kier have provided me a range of opportunities to develop as a professional and to gain the knowledge and skills I need to be a good Civil Engineer. As a large company, I have access to a range of projects on a range of scales to develop different skills in different environments.

I would say only apply for an apprenticeship you are fully committed to as working and studying at the same time is hard and staying motivated for four years isn't always easy. I advise getting some form of work experience before applying if possible and make sure you are genuinely invested in what you are signing up for.