As part of National Apprenticeship Week 2021, CIHT highlights up-and-coming apprentices from the highways & transportation industry. In this Q&A, we speak to Mott MacDonald apprentice and student at Leeds College of Building, Aaron Frater and find out more about his journey as a Transport Planning Apprentice.
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I have always been interested in transportation from a young age, especially in planning, design and operation. I chose an apprenticeship because it balances brilliant tuition at college with valuable experience in the workplace, giving the best of both worlds.
Working at Mott MacDonald has enabled me to work on a broad range of exciting projects, from strategic planning and policy studies to large-scale infrastructure projects to modelling new road junctions and transport infrastructure. My team has been very supportive of my development as an apprentice. COVID-19 has meant working from home for nearly a year now with team and client meetings moved online, though the daily commute is much shorter nowadays!
My advice to someone thinking about becoming an apprentice would be to make the most of every opportunity to learn new skills and get involved in initiatives and events.
The CIHT provides many benefits including the pathway to develop your career with Engineering Council-recognised qualifications, starting with the Engineering Technician qualification which you complete alongside the Level 3 course at college. They provide a wealth of knowledge and information including regular webinars and the online resource library. There are also excellent networking and social events for young professionals as well as for the wider transport planning community, and the opportunity to participate in CIHT initiatives, campaigns and awards.
My advice would be to make the most of every opportunity to learn new skills and get involved in initiatives and events. Be willing to share new ideas, ask questions and be creative.
Working at Mott MacDonald has enabled me to work on a broad range of exciting projects, from strategic planning and policy studies to large-scale infrastructure projects to modelling new road junctions and transport infrastructure.
The skills I bring to my role include being innovative and creative and working with integrity. I'm a team player and also work well independently and on my own initiative as well as being dedicated and having a good work ethic.
In the future I would like to further develop my skills in stakeholder engagement, particularly in public consultation, as well as in large-scale transport modelling. I would also like to continue to gain experience in strategic planning and policy and on rail and rapid transit projects.
Aaron has been in his role for two and a half years.
The opinions expressed are those of the author. 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.
Join other savvy professionals just like you at CIHT. We are committed to fulfilling your professional development needs throughout your career