Jack is now halfway through his college course and loving learning about being a surveyor – and even better, putting what he has learnt into practice, out on site every day. “Every day is different, and every site is different. Each project has its own challenges, which are unique to the particular job. This keeps it interesting.”
The college element of Jack’s apprenticeship takes place at Dudley College. It’s two weeks of intense classroom learning, every two to three months. “The time at college can be quite challenging as you have to remember what you learnt last time and be prepared to take a lot of new information on board over the two weeks. I enjoy it, but I much prefer being out on-site learning from my teammates.” Fellow Assistant Surveyor, George, who has just completed his apprenticeship has spent quite a lot of time showing Jack the role. “It has been so good to learn from someone else who has been through the apprenticeship. George understands what information I need for it all to make sense.”
Every day is different
Jack’s on-site experience has been really positive. “I love the variety that this job provides. You can be on the same job for a week, but even though fundamentally you are doing the same thing each day, in reality, every day is different. I also find the different types of sites we work on fascinating. One job can take you out into the middle of nowhere, and then the next project can be in the middle of a city centre. I really enjoy the fact that you get to work in both environments. I have recently completed a project in Edinburgh, which I loved.”
The survey equipment that Jack uses to capture data on site – some of which is very expensive and technical – is also something that adds interest to his work. “I have to get my head around each new piece of surveying equipment I use, but my colleagues show me what to do and the repetition of using the equipment on a regular basis, means that the learning sticks.”
When asked what he would say to someone considering a career in surveying, he said, “Surveying as a career choice is definitely a career worth pursuing. Doing it through an apprenticeship means that you get paid while you are learning. Having spent a couple of years in college before starting the apprenticeship, I would definitely recommend getting paid while you learn!”
Challenging, exciting and different
When asked for three words to describe his time with Powers so far, he said: “Challenging, exciting and different!”
Lucy Powers, director at Powers added: “We are really happy with how Jack is progressing. We are committed to employing and training apprentices as part of our approach to addressing the skills gap in the surveying profession. Apprenticeships are a great way to learn and earn. Our apprentices gain experience on a wide range of surveying sites and are involved in client projects from start to completion. They work closely with experienced surveyors, who mentor and provide on-the-job training and guidance.”
Powers combine a team of highly qualified and experienced surveying engineers and technicians, with leading survey technology to provide tailored, reliable and efficient drawings, maps and models. Each survey is specifically developed to meet the precise requirements of the Client’s project. If you would like to find out more, contact Lucy Powers at lucy@powersuk.com or 01928 734 473 today.
