We first met Victoria when she was 17 – she had a real passion for sustainability but didn’t know how to turn this into a meaningful career.

Through Pathways to Professional Careers, we opened Victoria’s eyes to the breadth of ‘green’ career and apprenticeship pathways in the built environment sector. Victoria’s Construction Youth Trust (CYT) coach connected her to a range of inspiring industry volunteers, including a Social Sustainability Manager working directly on her organisation’s social and environmental policies. This encounter was a real turning point for Victoria, helping her realise that she could pursue a rewarding career in construction that would involve actively tackling the climate crisis.

With a clear goal in mind, Victoria applied to a higher-level sustainability apprentice role. Victoria’s coach connected her to this opportunity through a Live Vacancies Day (CYT facilitated events that connect young people directly to relevant employers with live job opportunities). At this event, she heard directly from former apprentices and received advice on approaching the application process and preparing for an interview.

With the encouragement and support of her coach, including CV workshops and mock interviews, Victoria navigated the rigorous recruitment process and was offered the role of Apprentice Sustainability Manager!

We are delighted for Victoria and wish her the best of luck on her career journey!

Our Pathways to Professional Careers programme supports students (aged 16-18) interested in pursuing professional pathways, with a priority focus on those from disadvantaged backgrounds and underrepresented groups. Research shows that young people from well-off backgrounds are 80% more likely to be in a professional job. Pathways aims to level the apprenticeship playing field, helping young people overcome barriers and access rewarding higher-level and degree apprenticeship opportunities and professional careers.