Tom Bishop Completes His Apprenticeship

Initially Tom chose to go to college, but after being introduced to apprentice opportunities, he decided that an apprenticeship was the best route for him to pursue his engineering career. An apprenticeship appealed more than a ‘traditional’ degree, as Tom felt he was able to gain the qualifications necessary, as well as obtain valuable, first-hand experience, whilst earning some money along the way, without a £50,000 loan at the end of it!

The knowledge Tom gained about apprenticeships drove him to become an Apprentice Ambassador. This allowed him to tell his story and discuss apprenticeship opportunities with school leavers who are currently in a similar position to his when he left school. Being an Apprentice Ambassador has improved Tom’s confidence significantly:

“Being an Apprentice Ambassador, I have been to events where I spoke in front of a groups of students and teachers, which is something I never thought I was capable of.”

When Tom joined Rolton Group, he focussed on creating drawings using CAD software, as well as attending site meetings and developing design solutions for clients. However, since then, both he and his role have progressed significantly. His skill in software has increased considerably, and he regularly uses Revit, allowing him to produce 3D models for clients - an aspect that he thoroughly enjoys. Tom also has considerable levels of responsibility on some major projects including the new campus at the University of Northampton, a new 11-storey office block in London, and he is acting as lead technician on a landmark project in the East Midlands.

Tom has commended the continued support from his team throughout his time at Rolton Group and the guidance they provided in order for him to finish his apprenticeship.

Upon completing his apprenticeship, Tom has gained a BTEC Level 3 diploma in Construction and the Build Environment with Distinction, as well as the Level 3 NVQ diploma in Built Environment Design – Architecture.

Tom, who aspires to be a chartered engineer, is now continuing his studies and has started his Level 5 NVQ diploma in Construction Management (Sustainability) and Level 5 HND diploma in Construction and the Built Environment (Civil Engineering) at Moulton College. These courses will allow Tom to develop his management skills, as well as focus more on the design work a qualified engineer carries out.

Tom said of the occasion:

“I am so grateful for all the continued support and opportunities whilst completing my apprenticeship. Rolton Group has allowed me to explore an industry I am passionate about; I could not be happier with my working environment and prospects within the company to continually grow as a professional. I am so excited for my future and the challenges to come.”

Associate Director, Paul Housego said:

“Tom is a valuable member of the structural team. His desire to expand his knowledge and get involved has contributed significantly to the success of his apprenticeship. Congratulations Tom on your outstanding achievement – your hard work and dedication has thoroughly paid off!”

We are always looking for new individuals to join our team, and we will have our next intake of apprentices in June 2018. If you are interested in applying, or would like some more information, please contact Penny Knighton (Penny.knighton@rolton.com).