I always knew an apprenticeship was the right choice for me. I have never been one for sitting in the classroom all day every day; I learn much better through hands–on experience and applying my knowledge.
My apprenticeship with Farrans has provided me with the opportunity to do something I love. Working alongside learning has been really beneficial as I have gained so much civil engineering knowledge and learnt how to apply it. Whereas when you think of someone graduating straight from university, they may have advanced theoretical knowledge, but they won’t necessarily know how to put it into practice.
“I believe you learn more on the site than in the classroom.”
The main reason I applied through Workplus was the simple application process. You only had to fill out one form and can then apply to as many companies as you like. I wouldn’t be where I am today without Workplus.
“The platform introduced me to opportunities I previously didn’t know existed.”
I got my placement with Farrans and have never looked back!
Farrans has been really supportive when it comes to balancing the job and our university coursework. If I’m struggling with any part of my course, I can bring it in and ask my mentor for help and if they aren’t able to advise me, they will put me in touch with someone who can. There is such a great breadth of skilled and knowledgeable people that I can ask questions to; they might know something you don’t. Likewise, I have been able to bring fresh ideas and new things I have learnt on my course into the workplace.
I am currently working on a project with Irish Water in Galway. My apprenticeship has given me the opportunity to travel and see parts of Ireland I otherwise wouldn’t have visited.
The highlight of my apprenticeship so far has been working on the North West Transport Hub. I got to experience engineering from various aspects from working inside buildings to on the railway tracks. The project featured some nightshift work which I know a lot of people won’t be so keen about, but I found it exciting as it was something new.
My apprenticeship has been great as I am involved in projects at different stages. Not only am I learning how to put in new lines but also how to repair them.
“It has been really rewarding to see projects from start to finish.”
In 10 years time, I want to have moved up the company ladder from a site engineer to a senior engineer and hopefully onto project manager. This apprenticeship is helping me to reach my long–term career goals. I am gaining the relevant experience and the right qualifications to progress within Farrans.