How STEM apprenticeships can uncover a hidden gem of a career in engineering

STEM apprenticeships are a great way to kick-start a career in all kinds of engineering. At Sweco, we see first hand how they help young people develop fantastic engineers with no ceiling, without the same debt burden as some other routes into industry.

We believe it’s vital for us, and our peers, to open young people’s eyes to the alternative routes available through STEM apprenticeship options. Here, Engineer Lauren Cunningham EngTech MICE shares her experience.

I was fortunate enough to be introduced to STEM at 12 years old, and opt for Design, Engineer, Construct (DEC), a pioneer GSCE at age 14 which provided a pathway into industry. I worked with people from industry and industry used software from being 12 years old and was openly introduced to apprenticeships as an alternative (and better option) to the traditional university route.

 

The benefits of being an apprentice are : gaining industry experience whilst learning academically, developing in the real world , earn whilst you learn , no student debt and a professional accreditation.

 

My biggest achievement is presenting at the House of Lords on behalf of DEC showcasing that a built environment qualification is needed to maintain and improve or existing infrastructure; and that apprenticeships should no longer be seen as the ‘bad’ alternative to the traditional university route. In my opinion, it is rather the opposite.

 

Being an apprentice has helped my career because I gained professional accreditation with the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) at 18 years old and one of the youngers members worldwide to ever do so. I am also only 22 years old, with 6 years’ experience in the field and in a range of sectors.

 

I am also about to obtain my degree in Civil Engineering and my next step of professional accreditation by 23 years old. To put that into context, traditional university students graduate at 22 years old, with 1 years’ experience from a gap year, student debt and no professional accreditation.

 

My advice to those thinking of doing an apprenticeship are, apprenticeships, in my opinion, are far better than the traditional university route for many reasons, however, studying part time and working full time is a huge commitment and apprenticeships are far from the easy option.

 

I think this is a common misconception, particularly in the older generation and needs to be adapted.

 

I would encourage all employers to take on apprentices, and those in our sector, to join the 5% group, but to ensure that they don’t believe it is an easy option and the apprentice is fully supported in their academic and practical development.