Civil engineer Review

As a 2nd-year Civil Engineering Apprentice, my role involves assisting with surveying, setting out, and monitoring construction activities to ensure projects are completed accurately and efficiently. Day-to-day, I work alongside engineers and surveyors, using instruments like total stations and GPS equipment to set out points for structures such as bridges, tracks, and foundations.
I also assist in conducting site inspections, tracking progress, and ensuring compliance with design specifications. My responsibilities include data collection, CAD drawing interpretation, and quality assurance tasks, such as maintaining inspection test plans (ITPs) and risk assessments.

My apprenticeship programme is well-structured and organised, providing a clear balance between practical experience and academic learning. There is a structured training plan in place, ensuring that I gain exposure to different aspects of civil engineering, such as surveying, setting out, health & safety, and project management.
Regular progress reviews help keep me on track, and my mentors provide guidance and support throughout. However, at times, scheduling can be challenging due to site demands and workload. Additionally, there may be room for improvement in how study and university blocks are structured to better align with site commitments. Overall, the program ensures I gain the necessary skills and experience to progress towards my EngTech qualification successfully.

I receive a good level of support from my employer throughout my apprenticeship. My team is always willing to provide guidance, training, and hands-on experience to help me develop my skills. I have regular reviews with my mentor and line manager to discuss my progress and areas for improvement.
Support is also available for my academic studies, with opportunities to ask questions and gain practical insights that relate to coursework. However, there are times when workload and site commitments can make it challenging to balance studies but this is the nature of a degree apprenticeship. Overall, my employer is invested in my development and ensures I have the resources needed to succeed.

I receive a good level of support from my training provider while working towards my qualifications. Tutors are knowledgeable and responsive, providing guidance on coursework, exam preparation, and practical applications of engineering principles. Lectures and workshops help reinforce learning, and there are opportunities to ask questions and seek clarification when needed.

My qualification provides a solid foundation in the technical knowledge required for my role, helping me understand key engineering principles, industry standards, and best practices. The coursework and assessments improve my ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world tasks, such as setting out, surveying, and interpreting technical drawings.
However, while the qualification is valuable, there are times when the content does not fully align with site-specific challenges. Some topics are more theoretical, and additional hands-on training or case studies could enhance the practical application of what is learned. More integration between academic learning and workplace tasks would help bridge this gap.

Yes

I would highly recommend this company to a friend because it offers a supportive and inclusive work environment where personal and professional growth is encouraged. The company provides excellent opportunities for career advancement, whether through training, qualifications, or exposure to diverse projects. The team is collaborative, and there’s a strong emphasis on learning from one another.