This National Apprenticeship Week, we’re introducing members of our LCRIG Apprenticeship Task Group. First up is Ella Bardgett, a Design Technician with Cormac Infrastructure Group. We caught up with Ella to find out what inspired her to take the apprenticeship route and what advice she would give to anyone considering an apprenticeship in the highways sector.
Q. What inspired you to choose an apprenticeship over another career or education pathway?
A. After originally planning to study engineering full time at university, I found out about the degree apprenticeship route via UCAS. I realised I could still study the subject I enjoyed whilst seeing the real-world application of my studies through gaining industry experience. An apprenticeship offered a practical route into the industry, and I now get to apply the theory I learn at university to a wide range of projects. I think the apprenticeship pathway is the most effective way for me to build both technical knowledge and industry understanding, and it has also boosted my confidence as I’ve grown more capable in real project environments.
Q. How do you manage balancing work responsibilities with training and study commitments?
A. Balancing work and study can be difficult as an apprentice, however it is achievable with good time management. I try to plan my tasks around project and university deadlines and break larger pieces of work into manageable chunks. Being transparent with your employer about your university requirements and vice versa is also extremely helpful. It’s important to remember that your colleagues and training provider are there to support you if they can!
Q. How has being part of the LCRIG Apprenticeship Task Group supported your personal and professional development?
A. The LCRIG task group has given me the opportunity to spread awareness of apprenticeships and their importance in the industry and the experience has broadened my understanding of the future challenges and opportunities within highways. I’ve also had the opportunity to meet and collaborate with other apprentices across the industry, and I look forward to what we can achieve in 2026!
Q. What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship in the highways sector?
A. Go for it! Although balancing full-time work with academic learning can be challenging, the experience you gain is invaluable and will definitely make you stand out. It’s absolutely worth it, and I highly recommend an apprenticeship to anyone looking to earn a qualification! Highways and civil engineering industry is so broad, and I believe anyone interested in doing an apprenticeship would be able to find their place in the sector and a role that they enjoy.
A huge thank you to Ella for sharing her apprenticeship journey with us.
Stay tuned this week as we continue to introduce more members of our Apprenticeship Task Group.
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