With this week marking National Apprenticeship Week, we are celebrating the incredible individuals in our apprenticeship programme.
I had the opportunity to speak with several RLB apprentices, both past and current, about their experiences – what being an apprentice at RLB means to them and the key skills they feel the built environment must adopt going forward to futureproof itself.
A key takeaway from our apprentices is that the skills they are developing closely align with RLB’s core values of Truth, Trust, Together, Tomorrow. Many feel comfortable seeking support, encouraged to have a voice in meetings and trust in their colleagues to guide them on their professional journeys.
“I’ve been on site visits; I’ve been working on real projects and these opportunities have definitely helped me develop so much faster.”
Olivia Seguna, Cost Management Apprentice
Beyond learning new skills, our apprentices and their managers emphasised the importance of sharing knowledge in the business. Their diverse backgrounds and experiences bring unique insights, benefiting both them and their colleagues.
“It’s really rewarding to watch peoples’ knowledge and professional competence and confidence grow. And rewarding to see different people come into the industry from a more diverse background through the apprenticeship route.”
Will Tobin, Associate
Many apprentices see the built environment as a sector that shapes both their future and that of society – whether through building hospitals, creating classrooms or master planning town centres with green spaces. Key motivations for joining the industry include reducing carbon emissions, striving for drive for net zero, creating social value and tackling regional disparities. Achieving professionalism recognition and accreditation was also noted as a key goal.
“The most exciting part will be finally getting accredited by RICS – knowing all my hard work will have paid off.”
Simon Kalume, Apprentice Cost Manager
“The level of support you receive, that assistance, that knowledge. For early careers, RLB is one of the best companies to start out with. It gives you the opportunity to grow and develop.”
Toby Vowels, Apprentice Building Surveyor
When asked about the future of the built environment, our apprentices identified two key skills the industry must embrace – sustainability and digital and data. This reflects RLB’s focus having recently invested in its digital apprenticeship programme and mandatory sustainability training across the business.
“One of the best things about managing an apprentice is that they bring fresh skills and perspectives, helping us challenge the norm and stay future-focused.”
Jamie Ali, Senior Cost Manager
Finally, our apprentices highlighted the importance of working for an organisation that values skills and invests in upskilling in its people – not just for the company’s success, but for the growth of the individuals.
“Don’t take No for an answer, keeping knocking on doors, keep asking questions, become a complete sponge, try and learn as much as you can. RLB is very supportive – the goal is to find the role you want to land in the end.”
Aisha Toussaint, Health & Safety Apprentice
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