Luke Kinnear

"I first heard about the civil engineering apprenticeship at a social event.  One of the lads mentioned he was doing this apprenticeship, and I thought that it sounded good – working, earning and getting a qualification."

“The summer before I started the apprenticeship, my dad helped me get a placement with Charles Brand.   It was great experience and it helped me secure an apprentice position with them. I would recommend to anyone interested in an apprenticeship to go and try something in the area you are interested in working, if possible."

“I like being out working, you are expanding your knowledge every day, and no two days are the same.   Most recently, I was involved in the construction of the bridge across the dual carriageway between Comber and Bangor, part of the Greenway which Charles Brand are contracted.   I was involved in the team responsible for helping organise where things would go on the site.”

“At the minute I am happy to keep working with Charles Brand, gaining experience and successfully completing my Level 3 Apprenticeship NI in Civil Engineering.   I do want to progress but am keeping my options open.”

“I am in college one day a week and it is different from school.  It is a bit more relaxed, but at the same time, you are responsible for keeping up with assignments.  What I am learning in college, I can apply in the workplace and what I am learning out on site, I am able to bring back to the class.”

“When you are an apprentice, you are employed, so that comes with everything you would expect when you go to work - time keeping, being professional and teamwork.   I think the apprenticeship route is the best way to go, and getting paid certainly helps when it comes to paying for things, like a car.”