Apprenticeships of all levels are a fantastic option for people who are interested in earning while learning. An apprenticeship can provide avenues for career development at any stage, whether you are an individual with limited work experience, looking for progression into a new industry, or seeking to elevate your existing skills in a new project. Apprenticeships offer structured education, hands-on learning, and a wage all at the same time.
As a Responsible Business, we celebrate the positive social and economic impact of apprenticeships and have fully integrated them into our objectives and strategy. For National Apprenticeship Week, we interviewed several of our apprentices to learn more about what makes an apprenticeship such a valuable experience. Today, we are talking to Dan about his new role as our Project Management Apprentice (Level 6).
Dan started here at Kenny Waste Management only this week and he already has a head-start on his training, which would usually last up to 3 years. He is excited to develop his knowledge and implement his learning within the business. Dan will be managing projects from conception to maturity, including budgets, resources, scheduling, and more.
Having progressed through a Level 3 Administration Apprenticeship and a Level 4 in Project Management in a previous role, as well as being a member of the Apprentice Ambassador Network, Dan is uniquely placed to offer his perspective on the benefits of taking on an apprenticeship.
Why did you decide to start an apprenticeship at Kenny Waste Management?
“I’m impressed by the social enterprise activities and the aims of operating as a net zero carbon business by reducing carbon impact. I want to engage with all the positive work on the horizon and help make a difference in our local area. An apprenticeship offers me the ability to grow, develop, and learn, all while providing opportunities to make a real impact within the business and beyond.”
What are you most looking forward to?
“First and foremost, I’m keen to learn about the business, its partners, and the markets it operates in and really understand how my role ties in. But in terms of work, I’m keen to get started and assist with our work on carbon reduction. I have experience in the waste management industry from my previous role, but this role is completely new to me. This project in particular corresponds with my own focus on sustainability. Using my learning to help implement change has always been what I’m most passionate about.”
Can you tell us about something crucial you’ve learned as an apprentice?
“Learning more about planning and scheduling has been really invaluable. Giving structure to a project gives you that solid platform to deliver and to put all your training to good use.”
What’s the most difficult part of being an apprentice?
“It can be a challenge getting people on board with all the theory and the knowledge that you’re putting into practice at the implementation stage, as sometimes these things can be very structured and a little dull.”
How do you take your coffee?
“Oat milk with one sugar.”
What have you learned about yourself as an apprentice?
“I’ve surprised myself that I can continue to learn academically while working. Learning on the job is extremely valuable and before becoming an apprentice I really didn’t think I’d continue my academic studies after my first qualification – I didn’t really think I was capable!”
What advice would you give to someone interested in working as an apprentice?
“Grasp the opportunity with both hands. It’s a great option to combine earning and learning, and it’s a unique route to help you grow in your career. Definitely go for it if you think it could suit your aspirations.”
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