07 Feb Life as an apprentice at WWA: Alice Taylor – Apprentice Project Manager
My apprenticeship journey with WWA has been really exciting so far, with lots to learn about the construction industry. Although I’ve only been within my apprenticeship for a few months, I have gained a really good insight into the types of projects WWA are involved in, including healthcare projects at Derriford, Royal William Yard regeneration projects, and the construction of a new Crematorium. I have been gaining skills in balancing work, studying and personal life, and have enjoyed the flexibility of virtual studying with UCEM. Meeting many people on different projects has begun my journey in my career, learning from experienced surveyors, site managers, engineers and designers. I am also fortunate to have met other apprentices in Plymouth, alongside getting involved in social and charity events with WWA colleagues.
After completing my A Levels, I had been on track to go to university to study Geography. Due to the pandemic, I chose to not take that route as I’d heard about the opportunities that apprenticeships offered. During the pandemic, I worked within the Covid-19 testing programme, which gave me an insight into being within the workplace. It also showed me that being employed develops my personal skills, including building confidence, improving my communication skills and developing my time management. I wanted to continue academic studies alongside employment, and a degree apprenticeship seemed like a fantastic opportunity for me.
I hope to complete my apprenticeship scheme, gaining a BSc in Construction Management and aspire to become a RICS Chartered Surveyor. Within this journey and beyond, I hope to gain a vast amount of knowledge and experience within the construction sector, helping me to develop my career. I also aim to be involved in a variety of projects with different clients, helping to improve services and facilities for communities, while also benefitting the environment. I also look forward to continuing to be involved in WWA’s B Corp work and charity events.
Outside of work and studying, I enjoy being outdoors and with family and friends – I am fortunate to live on the edge of Dartmoor and near the coast, spending lots of time walking, swimming in the sea and paddleboarding. I also like going to the gym, going out with my friends and eating good food!
