Jones Bros Civil Engineering UK’s commitment to nurturing the future of the industry took another giant step forward when it launched the improved programme in 2024.

That saw the 2022 intake of 10 move to the new-look arrangement, which leads to a BEng (Hons) in civil engineering or a BSc (Hons) in quantity surveying.

Alex Trickey, who hails from Elvanfoot in Lanarkshire, and Gretna-based Freddie Brown are two of the higher apprentices placed on the scheme, which combines classroom studies with on-site work experience across five years.

During the first half of the programme, Alex has been at the £300 million 49-turbine North Kyle Wind Farm in Dalmellington and the 15-turbine Benbrack Wind Farm in Dumfries and Galloway.

The 24-year-old has also been involved in the early stages of Swansea Greener Grid Park, the innovative development, which is the first of its kind in Wales, that will help keep the lights on during faults or disturbances in the network.

Alex, who swapped working as a barber for a career in engineering, said: “It has been interesting, I’ve learned a lot, and I have really enjoyed it.

“It’s a new experience coming from being a barber, but it has definitely been worthwhile, and I would make the same decision all over again.

“I’ve recommended the scheme to a mate of mine, so that’s a sign that I’m enjoying what I’m doing.”

Colleague Freddie has also spent time at North Kyle Wind Farm, as well as Dogger Bank – the world’s largest offshore wind farm – and one of the UK’s biggest battery storage schemes in the multi-million-pound South Wales-based Uskmouth.

“I’ve learned a lot about myself as well as plenty about being on a construction site and civil engineering,” said the 23-year-old. “It’s been a good start to this episode of my career.

“The people I have worked with have all been really supportive and friendly. I’ve had some great mentors, who have taught me a lot.

“Renewables are the future and I’ve been on a variety of projects in the sector, so there is a wide and vast array of knowledge I’ve gathered.

“I’ve developed a lot. It has helped me understand about myself, how I learn, and how I work with others.”

Matthew Owen, a tutor with Coleg Cambria, which has partnered with neighbours Wrexham University to run the full degree apprenticeship is thrilled with the progress made by the 2022 intake.

He said: “Each learner has completed a full year of practical experience, refreshed their skills, and is fully prepared to embark on the next stage of their journey. 

“The enthusiasm and drive to succeed within the classroom remain exceptionally high, with a strong and positive start evident across the board. 

“This commitment sets an excellent foundation for continued success throughout the programme.”