GRAHAM’s building division in Scotland has created five apprentice positions, across various skill levels and abilities, including design management, construction programming, site management and engineering.

Over the past 15 years in Scotland, GRAHAM has supported over 120 apprentices and provided over 300 work placement opportunities at numerous sites including SPT, University of Glasgow, Lanarkshire health care projects and early learning and childcare expansion programmes.

Apprentice success stories for the construction firm include GRAHAM’s own regional managing director of building, Gary Holmes, who started as an apprentice with the company, working his way up to this current role. His progression and success within GRAHAM are proof that quality training, learning and support at apprentice stage can lead to a successful career in construction.

GRAHAM was one of the first construction companies to support the Graduate Apprenticeships programme, supported by Skills Development Scotland, with eight people currently enrolled at present and a further eight apprentices enrolled in modern apprenticeships. Additionally, GRAHAM currently sponsors seven under-graduates at University by employing them and paying their tuition fees.

A member of the ‘5% Club’, a group of companies committed to ensuring 5% of its workforce over the next five years is comprised of young people on structured learning schemes, GRAHAM is already ahead of the curve, with 13% of its workforce fitting the criteria.

The new apprentice opportunities come at a particularly key time for the construction industry where just 14% of the workforce are female.

GRAHAM is actively supporting initiatives to increase the number of women in the sector, including partnering with Action for Children on its ‘Women into Construction’ programme, which has seen a group of seven women, aged 16 – 24 take part in a seven-week course.

As part of their involvement in the ‘Women into Construction’ programme, GRAHAM is facilitating a ‘constructionarium’ which will see the group build a fully functioning wind turbine over three days. The team will learn new skills and how to work with new tools to build the turbine, which will involve working outside in the elements on every part of the process, from groundwork and concrete pouring to building and generating electricity.

Debbie Rutherford, social impact manager for GRAHAM, said: “We’re really proud of the opportunities we put in place at GRAHAM projects across Scotland, to enable apprentices to gain real life, practical skills and experience in the construction sector.

“13% of the GRAHAM workforce is comprised of young people on structured learning schemes, ahead of the 5% ideal quota. This coupled with our support of the ‘Women into Construction’ programme shows we are dedicated to nurturing and supporting young talent. I’d encourage those looking to further their career in construction to review our live apprentice opportunities and apply.”

Beth Paterson, 20, from North Lanarkshire is an apprentice engineer at GRAHAM.

She said: “As an apprentice with GRAHAM over the past two years, I’ve been able to apply what I have learned in the classroom, on-site, on live construction projects.

“Through GRAHAM’s apprentice programme, I’ve been able to refine my skills and knowledge in engineering whilst working directly across two site teams on a prestigious construction development, which has been a rewarding and insightful experience.

“I’d really recommend an apprenticeship with GRAHAM as it’s been a great way to learn and develop and it’s really boosted my confidence.”

Those interested in applying for an apprenticeship with GRAHAM in Scotland are encouraged to send a CV and covering letter to: Glasgow.GrahamAcademy@graham.co.uk.