Zinat, 18, joined our Pathways to Professional Careers programme in Southwark during a period of uncertainty about her future. She had a strong interest in engineering but was unsure which area would best suit her skillset or how to access opportunities after leaving school.

We paired Zinat with one of our expert employability coaches to walk her through the different pathways in engineering – from civil to structural – to help her gain a better grasp of the different disciplines in the sector and discover which role would best compliment her skillset. This included facilitating a work experience placement with a civil engineering company for Zinat to gain first-hand experience of the industry. Throughout her placement, she met a variety of professionals in different roles, including those she had never even heard of such as geo-technical and design engineers. Zinat was also mentored by graduates at the company and given advice and insight into the day-to-day life of a young engineer.

Returning from her insightful placement, after learning more about engineering and connecting with professionals in that role, she decided this was the role to pursue. We helped build her employability skills including creating a CV, developing interview techniques, mock interviews, and even inviting her to attend an application masterclass, to boost her confidence and prepare her for navigating the recruitment process.

Her coach shared exciting apprenticeship opportunities with her, including one for a Smart Building Engineering Apprentice with a building maintenance specialist company, which aligned closely with her interests. Using the skills and confidence developed on the programme, she successfully progressed through three interview stages and was offered the role. She is due to begin her apprenticeship in September. Wishing her the best of luck!

Construction Youth Trust works in local communities across London and North Kent, targeting areas with a high proportion of low-income households and significant construction and regeneration.

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.