Jake Rosbottom, Technical Apprentice with GRAHAM Construction
Jake Rosbottom, 18, Technical Apprentice (Civil Engineering) with GRAHAM Construction.
“The support provided by DGTAP really helped me to progress beyond school and encouraged me into employment.”
My mornings usually consist of completing any outstanding written work for the previous day. This means that everything is signed off as soon as possible, I can then focus on the rest of my daily duties. This helps to minimise the number of problems I encounter in my work.
On a daily basis I am responsible for setting out areas of work for the Ground Work Subcontractor, once I have completed this work the Site Engineer will double check the work I have carried out and go over any discrepancies that may need addressing. This system of working has helped me with my confidence and communication skills when discussing matters with our Subcontractor.
Working alongside industry experts has helped me to develop key skills, for example, time management, communication and listening skills, working as part of a team and developing site-specific knowledge. As I progress through my apprenticeship, I am determined to learn about more aspects of engineering and to build my confidence in order to improve my development and ability to do the job.
The biggest challenge I have faced in my apprenticeship with GRAHAM Construction has been a lack of experience. I have found it difficult to keep pace with other more skilled and experienced tradesmen, who have been in the industry for a far greater length of time. However, through the guidance of Senior Engineer and advice of my Project Manager, I have learned to remain calm, take my time and have confidence in my own ability to do the job to a high standard.
As part of my apprenticeship, I am undertaking an HNC in Civil Engineering at Forth Valley College alongside a SVQ Level 3. I am studying a number of different modules, such as civil engineering technology, construction management, structural analysis and computer aided design. Improving my knowledge in these areas will allow me to achieve my ambition of completing the two-year course with a grade B or above. On completion of my apprenticeship and after gaining a few years site experience, I want to progress on to university to study for a civil engineering degree which will improve my career opportunities further and ultimately help me achieve my overall ambition of becoming a Site Manager.
DGTAP’s service has been of great use to me, helping me to find a suitable apprenticeship relatively quickly. I initially saw an advert on their Facebook page, which encouraged me to drop in to their office at Nith Place in Dumfries. The support I received helped me to improve my CV and prepared me for applying for jobs and the interview process. On top of this, they provided in-depth advice on what my apprenticeship would entail and what I could expect when working on a construction site.
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