Course Title Level 4 Construction Design & Build Technician
College Dudley College
Course Duration 3 Years
Course Delivery Day Release
Why did you choose to become an apprentice?
I always felt that I was personally better suited to doing an apprenticeship after my A-levels, especially in the field of engineering. The ability to learn in theory and gain experience on the job at the same time has been a great way to prepare me for my career, not to mention earning money at the same time. The very nature of apprenticeships mean that you are integrated into a company and this is a huge benefit as well because you are always learning things that are relevant to your sector and your role.
How do you combine your work and studies?
I am always looking to actively combine my work with my studies by taking the knowledge I gain from college and applying the understanding to my role. Throughout my apprenticeship I have to provide evidence of this learning and I do this by using an application called Smart Assessor which allows me to keep track of all the key modules that I am working on and ensure I stay on track with my apprenticeship.
What does a typical day consist of?
I really enjoy the variety of work, some days I will produce as installed drawings, meaning I update drawings to reflect changes made from the original design to the final install on site using specialist 2D and 3D computer aided design software such as Revit and AutoCAD. Other days I go to site and complete surveys, producing schematics for different systems and completing general routing of systems including ductwork, pipework and containment. Then others I might complete internal training sessions to learn more about how systems work or attend CPD’s with external experts to expand my industry knowledge.
What opportunities / progression have you made / taken advantage of already in your career?
I have taken every opportunity to broaden my knowledge and learn more about the industry and my role within it including attending CPD’s and site visits. I’ve also made a lot of progression since starting at DBS working within the design department, with Revit, CAD and Navisworks by attending training sessions hosted by my colleagues. I pride myself on setting high standards and am always looking to improve upon them, I think this shows in my college assessments and the progression I have made so far.
How do you hope your career will progress in the future?
My main focus at the moment is to complete my studies and learn as much as possible throughout the duration of my apprenticeship. By getting this right I have the best possible chance of preparing myself to be ready for a career as a Mechanical Design Engineer.
What do you like most about working at Derry Building Services?
The thing I like most about working at DBS is the variety of work that I get to be involved with, I really enjoy problem solving as well when challenges present themselves. Another reason I enjoy working at DBS is the social side of things, being able to talk to people at work makes the day more enjoyable and work nights out and other social events are great fun and help to build our relationships as a team. There is also the opportunity to progress within the company which is really encouraging and motivates me for my future career.
What advice would you give to anyone considering an apprenticeship?
My advice to anyone considering an apprenticeship is go for it! Earning whilst learning, gaining experience, and being immersed within a company are all huge benefits and by the end of your course you are almost guaranteed a career - as long as you work hard and hold up your end of the bargain that is!
