Thalia Champkins
Apprentice Civil Engineer at Balfour Beatty
Key Details:
| Current industry | Construction |
|---|---|
| School attended | The Nelson Thomlinson School |
| College/training provider attended | Trinity School, Carlisle |
| University attended | University of Salford |
| Year completed GCSEs | 2023 |
| Favourite lessons at school | Engineering, Maths, Physics |
Q&A
— Give a short overview of your career journey after school
Following the completion of my A-levels, I started a civil engineering apprenticeship with Balfour Beatty in Penrith working on the A66.
— What do you love about your job?
I really enjoy the variety within my job, I always have such a range of tasks. Everyday is different! I also love being out on site daily. I get to see the progress of our project, each time I go out something has changed. On site, I get to use all the different equipment, speak to the different teams and stay up to date with the constant changes on our project.
— What piece of advice would you give to young people about finding their best next step?
Think about what you enjoy and what you’re good at. Your interests and strengths will be a big indicator of jobs to look into. Explore plenty of different options and routes such as apprenticeships, university or college to find the one best suited to you. Get some work experience in jobs you're interested in, even if it's just a day or two. It gives you an insight into the job and will help you to decide whether you can see yourself doing it full time.
— What three essential skills do you think have helped you to be successful in your job?
Problem Solving, Staying Positive, Aiming High.
— What advice would you give to someone considering working in your industry?
In the construction industry you work with so many different people every single day so it's very useful to have good communication and teamwork skills. Developing these will give you a good base in the world of construction. Again, work experience is really useful to understand what the job is really like first-hand. If you're looking into an apprenticeship, be prepared for a challenge. Studying for a qualification as well as working can be hard work at times, but it is worth it! Apprenticeships give you real industry experience, recognised qualifications and a very strong start to your career.
— What is the best piece of advice you have been given that has helped you on your career journey?
Take every opportunity that comes to you.