Marcus Charlston – STEGTA Excellence Award Winner 2022
We would like to Congratulate Marcus Charlston who is employed by Atkins based in Derby, as he has been awarded a STEGTA Excellence Award for Outstanding Performance in Civil Engineering.
Marcus has completed the Level 3 Civil Engineering Technician Standard and has now progressed onto a Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship in Civil Engineering.
Marcus tells us more about his Apprenticeship journey below…
“I was intrigued by a career in civil engineering throughout my time at secondary school having always had an interest in the built environment whilst travelling. There are many different types of engineering and I take pride in being a part of that community, making a tangible difference to people’s lives.
My STEGTA Training Officer Chris Dawson provided great support throughout my Apprenticeship, complementing the existing network that surrounds me within Atkins. Chris instantly established himself as an approachable point of contact who would offer assistance with the programme but also time to discuss the wider subject and his experience in the field. Throughout my whole time at Atkins, my colleagues have aided my development as an engineer, specifically during preparation for the EngTech qualification.
I have been involved in Sustainable Urban Drainage System (SuDS) design for multiple water companies across the UK, engaging with various stakeholders to reduce surface water flooding and shape a greener, more sustainable future. The implementation of these schemes at Primary schools in particular is extremely rewarding as it provides educational benefit and hopefully inspires a career in engineering.
I have since gone on to the Level 6 Civil Engineering Degree Apprenticeship, studying at the University of Derby. In conjunction with this, I am progressing with the ICE’s online Initial Professional Development portal, with the aim of sitting the IEng assessment upon completion of my studies. I continue to enjoy my role in the civil engineering world and look forward to what the future holds.”
Marcus’ Training Officer, Chris Dawson commented: “It has been a great pleasure to support Marcus throughout his Level 3 Apprenticeship in Civil Engineering. His work towards his portfolio of competence based evidence has always been of a high standard.
It was clear from the start Marcus would do well and he continuously developed his knowledge, skills and behaviours, hitting targets, going above and beyond what was required, always asked relevant questions to gain more understanding to the subject matter and always showed a professional approach.
Marcus had been working on various projects throughout the Apprenticeship. He was always enthusiastic by taking on extra responsibilities to push himself forward with the shadowing of senior colleagues and with the help from a supportive mentor/line manger Marcus excelled. Marcus has already assisted in the induction of the new Apprentices and is currently working towards a Degree Apprenticeship and I’m sure he will achieve excellent development goals. I wish him every success for the future.”
Marcus’s Line Manager, Alan Wisdish commented: “Marcus made an instant impression with his maturity and diligent approach to his studies and work. He was keen to progress, applying for apprenticeship awards within the company and always looking for opportunities to expand his knowledge and experience. He quickly became a trusted member of the team, even taking on a secondment to a client organisation. It has been a pleasure to support Marcus throughout his apprenticeship and we watch his career progression with interest! He is definitely a good role model for our next batch of apprentices!”