Environmental apprenticeship delivers real value in more ways than one
Born and raised in Norfolk, Alena Medler jumped at the chance to complete an apprenticeship in her home county, one that will see her achieve a Bachelor of Science degree in environmental management.
The opportunity arose after RSK supported J. Murphy & Sons in its tender to construct the 60 km onshore cable as part of the Norfolk Offshore Wind Zone project. The project placed an emphasis on social value, which RSK was keen to support, and this resulted in the creation of two locally based apprenticeships.
Over four years, Alenaβs role will see her complete environmental surveys, assessments and audits with the wider RSK technical team as the onshore cable construction progresses. She said: βThe environment has always been important to me and something Iβve been interested in pursuing a career in for a long time. When I saw there was an opening to complete an environmental apprenticeship in my local area, I just knew it was the perfect opportunity for me.β
Environment and Planning Operations Director Pete Whipp said that many major infrastructure projects did not highlight the benefit the projects can bring to local communities. He believes the industry should examine how it can more effectively deliver social value, whether that be through local outreach, volunteering, training, supporting local projects or providing local employment opportunities.
He added that the vast majority of environmental consultancy teams were recruited as graduates, and while this remained a valuable entry route for many, degree apprenticeships were significantly underutilised.
Pete said: βRecruiting staff at apprentice level enables us to give opportunities to people who canβt or donβt want to go down the traditional path of going to university. If we worked with our clients to ensure that locally based environmental practitioner apprentices were employed to work on the largest projects we are involved in, it would increase the number of opportunities for people looking to enter the industry.β
Alena echoed Peteβs calls to increase the number of apprenticeship opportunities and explained she was drawn to them because the hands-on approach best supports her learning style. She said: βIn an increasingly competitive world of work, apprenticeships are opening more doors for more young people and providing them with a different way to gain qualifications and be educated, all while getting paid.
On a personal level, Alena said she was amazed at what sheβs already achieved. She described joining RSK with limited knowledge as daunting, especially as everyone around her had lots of experience. However, her confidence has grown thanks to the support of the team, along with having the chance to explore her interests.
Alena said: βWorking on the project is a privilege, and I am looking forward to learning more and seeing where the apprenticeship takes me in the future.β
