Wilf, Civil Engineering Degree Apprentice

Thomas

Tell us about your role within the company you work for and what it involves. How does it relate to the degree apprenticeship?

I initially joined WSP in the Highways team through the degree apprenticeship programme. This experience not only provided me with foundational knowledge in civil engineering, but also offered a practical understanding of how theoretical concepts translate into real-world projects. My time in the Highways team served as a valuable introduction to the diverse facets of civil engineering.

I then discovered a passion for water-related projects and transitioned into the Water team. This realisation was significant not only for my personal interests, but also in shaping the trajectory of my career. The interdisciplinary nature of the program equipped me with the versatility needed to seamlessly transition between different engineering specialties.

Eager to further specialise, I moved to Moffatt & Nicholl, a firm with a focused expertise in coastal projects. This move exemplifies the adaptability cultivated through the degree apprenticeship, enabling me to navigate diverse engineering disciplines confidently.

In essence, my career journey from the Highways team at WSP to joining a coastal-focused firm like Moffatt & Nichol, showcases how the degree apprenticeship programme establishes the foundations for a well-rounded, versatile engineering professional. The apprenticeship not only provided a comprehensive academic foundation, but also instilled the skills necessary for me to identify and pursue my passion within the dynamic field of civil engineering.

How has studying for a degree apprenticeship benefited your future career? Has it opened new doors or progression for you?

During my time at the University of Exeter, I experienced the institution's unique commitment to incorporating industry needs into the curriculum, ensuring apprentices, including myself, gain relevant and up-to-date skills sought by employers. The emphasis on practical skills acquisition, aligned with real-world industry demands, prepared me seamlessly for integration into my chosen field. Specifically, the inclusion of Python in the curriculum addressed the growing importance of programming skills in the engineering world. This enhanced my capabilities in data analysis and software development which I have put to good use during my career.

The university’s flexibility in dissertation topics, exemplified by the diverse range of choices, allowed me to align my project to my specific areas of interest. This enabled me to foster a sense of ownership in my academic pursuits. The transition from theoretical concepts to practical tools in my dissertation research equipped me for the challenges of impactful research in my field. The University of Exeter provided a holistic and tailored academic experience that uniquely prepared me for my professional journey.

Would you recommend Exeter to other students thinking of taking part in a degree apprenticeship?

I wholeheartedly recommend the University of Exeter for prospective students considering degree apprenticeships, primarily due to the innovative block release structure. This distinctive feature has been instrumental in effectively managing the delicate balance between work and studies. By allowing concentrated periods of on-campus learning followed by practical application in the workplace, this structure provided a valuable rhythm, optimising my ability to immerse myself fully in both realms without compromising either.

Moreover, my engagement with the university community has been enriched through my participation in the Exeter University Sailing Club (EUSC). Serving on the committee for two years, this involvement not only offered a vibrant extracurricular dimension, but also showcased the university's commitment to fostering a sense of community and inclusion among its students and apprentices. This experiential learning opportunity, coupled with the degree apprenticeship's structure, contributed significantly to my personal and professional development.

In summary, the University of Exeter’s block release structure, commitment to industry integration, and the vibrant university community make it a compelling choice for those considering degree apprenticeships. While also ensuring that apprentices do not miss out on the social element to a university degree, the combination of academic excellence and practical applicability sets the stage for a well-rounded and rewarding educational journey, making the University of Exeter an ideal recommendation for aspiring apprentices.