Victoria Lysons - Cumbria Talent Force

Q&A

— Give a short overview of your career journey after school

When I left school I went on to do a college course in Animal Welfare and soon realised it wasn't for me. I then went and worked at an estate agent for just over a year doing an apprenticeship in that. Once again I realised I still wanted to do something in engineering so I applied to Oxley Developments as a business administration apprentice. I have now been offered a full time position as a Project Management Apprentice.

— What do you love about your job?

I love the opportunities it brings and doors it can open for me at such a young age. I am trusted to run many important projects and help along side them. I like being a team player and helping to come up with creative solutions to problems.

— What piece of advice would you give to young people about finding their best next step?

Whatever you do first may not be what you want to do for the rest of your life. Be confident: it will get you further than you think. Other people will have opinions about your future, listen to what they have to say and do what you think is best.

— What three essential skills do you think have helped you to be successful in your job?

Listening, Speaking, Staying Positive.

— What advice would you give to someone considering working in your industry?

It is quite challenging at times but is very rewarding. The working environment is electric. It is the most versatile industry as there are many avenues to go down than you think, so if you want a change there is room to go down that path.

— What is the best piece of advice you have been given that has helped you on your career journey?

Don't get out spoken. There have been times where I have had an idea and been out spoken but I found my voice and will push for it to be heard.