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.
“At first, I didn’t know a lot about the industry but through CYT’s programme I met so many industry professionals who taught me that construction isn’t just bricklaying, and there are so many roles available.”
With a clear goal in mind, Victoria applied to a higher-level sustainability apprentice role at Sir Robert McAlpine. Victoria’s coach connected her to this opportunity through a Live Vacancy 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 with Sir Robert McAlpine!
We are delighted for Victoria and wish her the best of luck on her career journey!
“The dedication my CYT coach, Holly, showed made such a difference. She went out of her way to make sure we got the opportunities we needed, and it was so helpful knowing she was only an email or call away”.