National Apprenticeship Week - Budding Brunels Alumni

As it's National Apprenticeship Week, we have been catching up with some past Budding Brunels students who have since moved into apprenticeships to hear how they are getting on.

Jack Reidy took part in a Budding Brunels programme back in 2013 when we partnered with Vinci. He is now undertaking a Train Maintenance apprenticeship with TFL.

Please can you tell us about your career to date and how you became interested in working in the construction sector?

I had just finished college at a UTC studying mechanical engineering, and my dad, who works at TFL, infleunced and encouraged me to get into construction.

What does your role at TFL involve and what is a typical day like?

My role revolves around train maintenance. A typical day starts at 8 a.m. and ends at 3.45 p.m with involvement in various projects including mechanics and electronics etc. all of which I enjoy.

How is your apprenticeship structured and what are the benefits of learning on the job?

I applied through the TFL website and had to complete two online tests - one written mechanical, and an English and Maths test. I was then invited to interview, after which I was successfully offered a position. The benefits are massive - you get hands on experience, a salary and most likely after 3 years apprenticeship, you may secure a permanent job.

What is your advice for other young people who are interested in finding out more about a career in construction and the built environment?

If you are specifically interested in working at TFL - I would recommend going to open days, meet and greet events, and keep an eye out for Q&A opportunities on social media.

What is coming up next for you?

Next year I will have the opportunity to work in different departments at TFL to gain more experience and will continue working there as a mechanical engineer.