To mark National Apprenticeship Week, we caught up with our Building Services Design Engineering apprentices, Oliwia and Umar, to hear about their experiences so far.
What’s one skill you’ve learned at XCO2 that you’ll use for the rest of your career?
Oliwia: Communicating.
Umar: Organisation skills. It makes you so much more efficient – honestly a life-saving skill, especially when you’re juggling work and university at the same time.
What’s a skill you didn’t expect to gain when you started your apprenticeship?
O: Confidence.
U: A skill I didn’t expect to gain was a stronger understanding of the design theory behind decisions. I’ve always approached things from a practical, construction focused angle, but the apprenticeship has helped me see the reasoning, calculations, and design principles that sit behind the build.
What’s your best learning moment so far?
O: Understanding small power distribution and mechanical equipment.
U: When I figured out how to do Amtech Calculations and understanding LV Schematics by myself without having to ask anyone for help.
How have your colleagues helped you build confidence in your work?
O: I am able to ask questions without the worry of being intimidated, I’m also encouraged to join events and talk with external parties.
U: They’ve helped me understand that even my opinions and thoughts are valued, which makes a massive difference when you’re still learning.
What makes XCO2 a good place to learn?
O: You feel part of the team as you don’t get excluded, and team meetings are fun. Hard tasks are explained really well with great examples.
U: Everyone is willing to help, and they make you feel comfortable asking questions without feeling silly.
Why did you choose an apprenticeship instead of a traditional university route?
O: More experience, opportunities and learning is achieved.
U: I prefer practical work rather than just theory. An apprenticeship is harder, balancing work and university coursework isn’t easy, but I like a challenge.
What’s one achievement from your apprenticeship that you’re most proud of?
O: Being able to design residential layouts! Literal pro.
U: I’m really proud of the mechanical calculations I’ve done for Colville – it felt as if those were the first calculations I completed since the apprenticeship started.
What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship?
O: Make sure you are passionate about the thing that you do, try to pick options based on your needs and wants.
U: Do your research. Knowing about the company is your way to impress the employer. If you don’t know the principles the company is built on, there’s no point doing the interview. Harsh but true.
Apprenticeships at XCO2 combine real project experience with real responsibility from day one. We’re proud of the contribution our apprentices make and the energy they bring to the team. Looking forward to seeing your progress, Oliwia and Umar!
