As National Apprenticeship Week (10th – 16th February) shines a light on alternative routes into employment, three professionals share how starting as an apprentice laid the foundation for successful careers. Their experiences challenge outdated perceptions and highlight why hands-on learning can be just as valuable—if not more so—than the traditional university path.
A Second-Class Route? Not at All
Back in 1998, Kevin White faced the same dilemma as many school leavers today—what next? University didn’t appeal, but he had a passion for construction and an ambition to become a site manager. An apprenticeship in carpentry and joinery allowed him to learn on the job while studying at college in Weston-super-Mare.
“It felt like a second-class route at the time,” says Kevin. “But I saw it differently. I wanted to be at the heart of a build, and learning while earning made sense.”
Fast forward to today, and Kevin, now 42, is the Construction Director at Barratt Homes Bristol. He climbed the career ladder from apprentice to director, proving that vocational learning can lead to high-level roles.
“Once I qualified as a carpenter, I was given the opportunity to train as a site manager. From there, I moved up through various roles—Senior Site Manager, Contract Manager, and Construction Manager—before reaching my current position. My daughter, who’s now 18, has just started a plumbing apprenticeship, and I couldn’t be prouder.”
Kevin believes that his hands-on experience gave him an edge. “I understood the nuts and bolts of a build because I’d done the job myself. Working alongside skilled people, picking up knowledge every day, and learning disciplines like cost control and customer care—those were invaluable.”
From Design Enthusiast to Industry Leader
Stacey Taylor’s path into construction was different but equally rewarding. Now a Chartered Architectural Technologist and Senior Technical Co-ordinator at Barratt Bristol, Stacey is also the first woman to hold the position of Honorary Treasurer on the Executive Board of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists.
At 16, Stacey knew she wanted to work in design but had no interest in staying at school. “I found a course that excited me, but it was a day-release programme, so I needed a job. I wrote to every architectural practice in my area, and one gave me a chance.”
That chance turned into a career. Stacey completed ONC and HNC qualifications while working and gained experience in different aspects of the industry.
“Learning in a workplace environment was a huge advantage. I was surrounded by people with different skills and experiences, which helped me shape my career. Now, I’m part of an industry that’s constantly evolving, particularly with a focus on sustainable construction. I’m excited to be involved in shaping the future of building design.”
Her advice to young people? “If you’re interested in a sector, research it, look at different routes in, and don’t be afraid to learn on the job. Skills gained through an apprenticeship are never wasted.”
A Career U-Turn That Paid Off
Three years ago, Alex Biruls was selling cars. He had left school unsure of his career path, spending time in retail and the motor trade before realising he wanted something different.
“I enjoyed negotiation and customer service, but I wanted more. I started looking into surveying and found a route in.”
Now 27, Alex has completed a Level 4 HNC and is studying part-time for a degree in Quantity Surveying at Sheffield University—all fully funded.
“I study in residential blocks, so one week I’ll be learning about timber frame construction in a lecture, and the next I’m back on site seeing it in practice. I have a mentor supporting me every step of the way.”
For Alex, the practical experience has been invaluable. “I never thought I’d end up in construction, but I love it. I’m working on projects that shape communities, and even small details, like planning playgrounds on developments, are fascinating.”
Apprenticeships: A Route to Success
Kevin, Stacey, and Alex all agree—apprenticeships offer an incredible start to a career. The opportunity to earn while learning, develop skills in a real-world environment, and progress within a chosen industry is invaluable.
Kevin recalls a careers adviser who once told him that architecture was “a bit high up” for him. His response?
“Don’t let people put you off. There are many ways to reach your goals, and learning on the job gives you real experience that stays with you for life.”
For those considering an apprenticeship, the message is clear: it’s a path that leads to real success, and the opportunities are there for the taking.
