Bianca is a degree apprentice working on the Thames Tideway project in London and specialising in tunnelling. Her team are building a 25km super sewer which will make the river cleaner and more environmentally-friendly.
My apprenticeship suited me a lot more than full-time A levels.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Age | 21 |
| Based | London |
| Employer | Apprentice |
What made you want to become a construction engineer?
I have always been interested by how things are built. I organised work experience with Crossrail when I was sixteen, and it blew my mind, seeing behind the scenes on a large construction project.
How did you approach an apprenticeship?
The jump from GCSEs was challenging. I achieved CCD at A Level, then enrolled on a Level 3 apprenticeship to do a BTEC. With that complete, I started a five-year degree apprenticeship in civil engineering.
What's a working day involve for you?
Day to day, I ensure that work carried out on-site meets the client’s specifications. I do regular progress, quality, health and safety, and environmental checks. Once a week, I go to university for lectures.
What's opportunities have been presented?
Work has given me so many opportunities. I deliver STEM sessions in schools and promotes women in construction at careers events. I was live on BBC Breakfast when my team lowered the first tunnel boring machine into the ground.
How much can you earn?
My starting salary was £19,500. I now earn £26,500. Eventually, I could be earning £50,000 - £70,000, depending on my employer, or whether I becomes chartered.
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