Jason is currently enrolled on Kingston University’s newly-introduced Civil Engineering Degree Apprenticeship scheme working with specialist consulting engineers Tony Gee.
He was attracted to the course because it gave him an opportunity to get a degree, which he would otherwise have found difficult. He says, “I was attracted to the degree apprenticeship because I liked the idea of being able to continue earning a salary working for Tony Gee, and having the opportunity to work towards my degree. Being a father of twins, I wouldn’t have been able to afford to go to university and further develop my career as I am doing today.”
He says the course itself offers him a range of benefits; “[Kingston University] had a very structured plan to get the apprentices caught up to the full time Civil Engineering students, and have provided excellent support.”
“I enjoy being able to meet new people from other companies, going through the same course as I am. This gives me an insight into the type of work others do in different departments and businesses.”
Jason says working alongside his studies has not just benefitted him financially, it has made the content much more interesting to study as he can apply straight away to his day-to-day work, at Tony Gee and partners, where he is the lead for Building Information Modelling.
The apprenticeship will have a real impact on Jason’s career progression. He says, “After graduating I will have seven years of experience working in the industry, this will mean I will be able to apply straight for Incorporated Engineer status with the Institute of Civil Engineers. I will then look to work for a few more years before applying to become a member of the Institute of Structural Engineers.”