A World Where You Can: Meet Jamie Matthews

Jacobs Civil Engineer, Jamie Matthews has just completed his Degree Apprenticeship (Level 6) in Civil Engineering and Environmental Management, having previously completed a Level 3 Apprenticeship in Civil Engineering (BTEC). Here, Jamie talks about the variety of disciplines he’s been able to gain experience in and shares advice for those considering their options.

How do you find the balance between working and studying at the same time? 

Maintaining workplace balance involves being honest with your manager, friends and peers. Workloads naturally fluctuate, but I've found that gradually chipping away at tasks, rather than rushing through them, has always been more effective for me.

Are there any characteristics that you need to be an apprentice?

Be open to learn and always understand where you want to go next. Going into a certain job role, or opportunity doesn’t mean you’ve got to stay there. If you think you enjoy an area, but an opportunity comes in a different one, don’t say no! I worked in Human Resources, Highways, Rail, Business Information Modeling, Project Delivery and Value Management and they all give unique knowledge. 

Are there any considerations to think about when doing an apprenticeship? 

Understand all of the role, and not just the bits you enjoy. There are many parts that may come as a surprise to you, like the reports, late nights and doing modules which aren’t as fun as others. Even though you may think they aren’t needed, it gives insights to how other areas of the business may work and helps deepen your knowledge and skills further. 

Is there anything you’re particularly proud of? 

Completing my degree apprenticeship and gaining an IEng (Incorporated Engineer) with the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE). This was a great milestone, and I couldn’t have done it without all the knowledge I learnt. 

Is there any advice that you’d give to anyone who’s thinking about their options? 

Be open with your ideas, don’t be to put off by rejection as there is a lot of competition out there. Explore work experience and/or mentoring opportunities beforehand to gain valuable experience and to ensure that you enjoy the type of work that you are trying to build a career in.