Apprentice stories AlexisGraduate Apprentice
Civil Engineering
Alexis Smith left the classroom behind and built a successful career in engineering.
Alexis's
journey
In 2021, Alexis completed her HND in Civil Engineering. She left college with a desire to take everything she’d learned into a real workplace environment.
A Graduate Apprenticeship was Alexis’ next step. The Glaswegian was offered a trainee planner role with GRAHAM.
This meant Alexis could work towards a degree at the University of the West of Scotland alongside her duties with the construction firm.
Alexis said, ‘The highlight has been learning the job. Putting into practice what I learnt in the classroom has been a major benefit.’
Alexis's
apprenticeship
Alexis’s role covers every area of construction – from foundations to completion. In fact, the apprentice found ways to make site projects run better while saving money. The business implemented her recommendations ahead of its upcoming jobs.
But streamlining GRAHAM's projects isn't all Alexis has achieved. The former HND student now feels confident presenting to large groups of people. Sometimes, Alexis is the only woman in the room – a role model for girls who dream about working in STEM.
In 2023, Alexis’s good work gained recognition at the Scottish Apprenticeship Awards. She was a finalist in the Graduate Apprentice of the Year category.
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How has Alexis got on as an apprentice?
The Graduate Apprenticeship has changed my life. It’s allowed me to earn and get a degree, meaning I can move out of my family home.
Alexis
Graduate Apprentice, Civil Engineering
The future
Thanks to her Graduate Apprenticeship, Alexis has a solid career foundation. Her next goal is to achieve Charted Engineer status. Eventually, Alexis wants to progress into a management role in planning.
Alexis is also keen to help other young people, especially women, construct a career in STEM. She's already mentored junior colleagues and appeared in a promotional Graduate Apprenticeships video. Next up, the STEM ambassador plans to volunteer in schools.
GRAHAM's Senior Planning Manager, James Craine, said, 'Alexis is an exceptional role model for apprentices. She's already an integral part of our company.'
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