Welcome to CIHT's 8 Questions, where we ask figures in the sector the questions every business leader and ambitious professional wants answered. In this edition we ask Lizzie Jones, Mott MacDonald, Assistant Urban Designer in the Cities Studio why apprenticeships are so crucial to the sector?
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My role within the Cities Studio often includes place-based baseline analysis, the development of concept designs and strategy, 2D and 3D visuals to demonstrate design solutions and producing engagement materials and report documents. I have worked mostly on small scale projects local to Liverpool and Wirral, but have recently started work on East West Rail and the refurbishment of the Marston Vale Line between Bletchley and Bedford.
I began my apprenticeship in September 2021 and completed my End-Point Assessment (EPA) early, achieving a distinction in November 2023.
With the sustainability goals set to reduce emissions, I saw the opportunity to be involved with projects that can make an impact on one of the biggest contributors to global warming. It’s a good feeling, knowing that I am making a difference.
I learned that stepping out of my comfort zone leads to significant personal and professional growth. Overcoming challenges, such as presenting in webinars, has boosted my confidence and expanded my professional network, making me more comfortable in meetings and events.
I would encourage you to go for it as apprenticeships are a great way to get into the highways and transport sector. Try to make best use of the time you have for training and offer to work with different teams on a range projects. I have been lucky enough to work on a number of international projects by building relationships with people across the company. Keep an open mind as you may find your passion and specialty.
Apprenticeships provide a comprehensive understanding of the diverse aspects of transport planning as it places you in an environment where colleagues collaborate on various project elements. Working closely with colleagues across teams has been crucial for my growth, helping me understand the business better and discover my passion for urban design.
Technological advancements are developing rapidly, utilising things such as AI could enhance efficiency and reliability of public transport, reduce congestion to optimise traffic flow and help to reduce the environmental impact of transport.
Lizzie Jones, AMCIHT, achieved a distinction and EngTech through her transport planning technician apprenticeship with CIHT. CIHT subsequently nominated Lizzie for the Women’s Engineering Society Best Newly Registered Technician Award for female EngTech registered candidates. Following the shortlisting of submissions review, Lizzie was awarded ‘Highly Commended’ for the Award
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of the CIHT or its members. Neither the CIHT nor any person acting on their behalf may be held responsible for the use which may be made of the information contained therein.
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