National Apprenticeship Week 2021 aims to shine a light on the amazing work being done by employers and apprentices across the country. In this CIHT Apprenticeship Week Hub we will be highlighting activities and events taking place in the highways and transportation space. We will also introduce some of the sector's future leaders.
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National Apprenticeship Week 2021 will take place from 8 to 14 February 2021. Under the theme 'Build the Future', the annual week-long celebration of apprenticeships will shine a light on the incredible work being done by employers and apprentices across the country. The Week will also recognise how employers of all sizes have stepped up to the challenge during this unprecedented time.
An apprenticeship is a real job where you learn, gain experience and get paid. It is a great way of learning new skills, gaining valuable work experience and getting qualified all while earning a salary.
Transport is part of everyone’s lives; it connects communities and supports the economy. The highways and transportation industry offers an interesting and exciting range of opportunities that allow you to get involved in all aspects of the building, maintenance, operation, design and planning of transport networks.
As part of National Apprenticeship Week 2021, CIHT highlights up-and-coming apprentices from the highways & transportation industry. We speak to Mott MacDonald Transport Planning Apprentice Lydia Jennings, AECOM Trainee Technician Hannah Brough, Mott MacDonald Transport Planning Apprentice Aaron Frater and FM Conway Graduate Engineer Vickie Bathe to find out more about their journeys as apprentices in the industry.
An apprenticeship provides a real insight into the world of work, while enabling continuous learning.
“I was drawn to the mix of work and college and getting experience at the same time as learning.” Lydia Jennings
“An apprenticeship seemed like the perfect route for me as it allowed me to experience working full-time whilst also, enabling me to continue with my academic studies part-time. I have found that … I can apply the theories and knowledge that I have learnt directly to my work which gives me an overall greater understanding.” Hannah Brough
“I chose an apprenticeship because it balances brilliant tuition at college with valuable experience in the workplace, giving the best of both worlds.” Aaron Frater
“I believe myself to be a physical learner and as such, learning on the job and receiving on site experience I felt to be the best way to start my career. I truly feel being an apprentice in construction gives young people starting their career a head start, as you are able to apply academic problems to on site activities and ask those around you for their knowledge and expertise.” Vickie Bathe
A CIHT apprentice membership is great for networking and getting to know the industry
“There are excellent networking and social events for young professionals as well as for the wider transport planning community, and the opportunity to participate in CIHT initiatives, campaigns and awards.” Aaron Frater
“Networking is a really important part of any job and crucial to kick start your career. As they say, ‘it’s who you know, not what you know!’. From going to college and CIHT events, I have gained insight into how other teams and organisations work and met some amazing people.” Lydia Jennings
“Being an apprentice member of CIHT allows me to connect with other apprentices in the industry and therefore create strong network connections.” Vickie Bathe
“Another large benefit of being an apprentice member of the CIHT is having the opportunity to raise my profile in the industry through multiple competitions and awards held across the regions.” Hannah Brough
Interested in becoming an apprentice in the industry? Do your research and get involved! You’ve got the choice!
“The apprenticeships available in the construction industry range from practical site apprenticeships to office-based design apprenticeships. There are so many options available and anyone considering apprenticeships should always do their research on what is actually available and interests them.” Hannah Brough
“Look into projects that a company has worked on and where you could progress after the apprenticeship, in terms of higher roles they offer. There’s more than you think on the surface because everything relates to transport and you can get involved in such a wide variety of projects.” Lydia Jennings
“I would advise any new apprentice to the industry to take full advantage of the opportunity being an apprentice gives, meaning to utilise professionals in the industry around you to support and strengthen your learning.” Vickie Bathe
You can use the find an apprenticeship service for apprenticeships in England.
More information about how to apply for an apprenticeship can be found on this UK Government website.
If you are an apprentice working in the Highways and Transportation sector, you can join CIHT for free as an Apprentice Member by completing an online form.
More information is available here
CIHT's Apprentice of the Year Award celebrates the achievements of apprentices who work in the highways and transportation sector, and the organisations that put them at the heart of their business. It is an opportunity to fast track your career, make connections you will value, boost your CV and gain personal insight into the highest level of the sector.
Why not also have a look at our CIHT Apprentice of the Year Awards 2020 and find out what it takes to win.
Join other savvy professionals just like you at CIHT. We are committed to fulfilling your professional development needs throughout your career
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