Samuel Lovett – Case Study
Employer: WSP
Job Title: Undergraduate Engineer
Apprenticeship: Level 3 Civil Engineering Technician Standard
Why did you decide to follow the route of an Apprentice Civil Engineer?
I have always had an interest in engineering but was never quite sure which area of engineering appealed and the best way to get into it. In a previous role, I became more familiar with civil engineering and the tasks involved and felt this was a career which would make the best use of my skills and interests. I decided to opt for the Apprenticeship route due to the combination of classroom based learning and practical experience. I’m a visual learner, so being able to learn the theory and then immediately put it into practice the next day was a huge benefit for me and the main reason I chose an Apprenticeship.
What does a typical day at work involve for you?
One of the things I enjoy about civil engineering is that each day can be different from the last. My job often includes design work using AutoCAD, attending meetings and discussions about projects and liaising with clients, contractors and colleagues. Each day throws different tasks, so although most days I do design work, the nature of my design changes. Some days it can be a more generic, feasibility design, and some days I can be going into fine detail on a specific item within the design. It’s an excellent career for someone who wants a variety of tasks day-to-day.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
I most enjoy the variety my job offers. On a weekly basis I can attend a site visit to the project I’m working on, work from home, work from different offices, attend lectures at college / university once a week and speak with different people about different tasks. Having such a variety breaks the week up really nicely and prevents the job from feeling samey and repetitive.
How did your STEGTA Training Officer and Employer support you throughout your Apprenticeship?
My STEGTA Training Officer (Sara) and my Employer have been incredibly supportive over the course of my Apprenticeship. Sara introduced herself at the beginning of the Apprenticeship and we discussed my aspirations, what was required from me, and what was required from her. Throughout we have had regular meetings to discuss issues, highlights and work that needs to be done. She has always been a phone call away if I have any questions. My employer has done the same. I have 90 day reviews with my line manager to discuss my progress and what I’ve done well and what I can improve, as well as support for my studies and being there to answer questions on my project work. My employer has also been very supportive given the challenging circumstances that COVID provided over the past couple of years. Between STEGTA and my employer, I have enjoyed a thoroughly supportive working environment and would recommend both to anyone looking for an Apprenticeship.
How did you prepare for the End Point Assessment process?
I spoke with my STEGTA Training Officer, Sara, very early on about my aspirations of wanting to complete my EPA at the end of my second year. From that point, Sara outlined what needed to be done which included completing my nine personal statements, my three project write-ups, my professional discussion and observations. To complete this, I sought specific experience to give me the required knowledge, skills and behaviours in order to complete my competence-based portfolio and apply for my EPA. To prepare specifically for the EPA process, I communicated with colleagues who could offer advice and support and ensured I understood the criteria that the Institution of Civil Engineers look for when undertaking the EPA. This allowed me to feel confident taking the assessment and helped me to prepare thoroughly.
How has your role developed since starting at WSP?
Since beginning with WSP my role has taken on much more responsibility. I started by training in the use of AutoCAD and risk assessments, and over time I gained more and more experience which has allowed me to take on my challenging tasks and take on additional responsibility. In the two years with WSP, I have become the office Health & Safety Representative and am due to undertake a First Aid course at the end of the year. At no point during my time with them have I felt like I am ‘just an Apprentice’, and feel that WSP have invested in me as much as they would any other employee.
Do you hope to progress to any further training/higher education?
Absolutely. Since completing my End Point Assessment I have now obtained EngTech status with the Institution of Civil Engineers, and have just started a Level 6 Apprenticeship with WSP, studying a BEng in Civil Engineering at London South Bank University. Following my Degree, I’m aspiring to complete a Master’s degree and work towards achieving Incorporated and Chartered Engineer status’ with the ICE.
What would you say to someone considering a career in this industry?
Do it! My experience has been so rewarding so far and I’ve found the role to be very fulfilling in terms of job satisfaction. There are some fantastic Apprenticeship schemes available and I truly believe Apprenticeships will be the way forward. Also, it’s important to remember that there are such a variety of roles within Civil Engineering, so there is something for everyone!