What made you decide to do an apprenticeship?
I have always wanted to do an apprenticeship as being able to earn while I learn appealed more to me more than going down the university route. I really value the hands on, real world experience I get from an my apprenticeship in a structured environment whilst being able to work towards my qualifications.
What are you doing in your apprenticeship and what have you found most valuable so far?
My role is apprenticeship BIM Technician, I transferred to this role from an apprentice draughtsperson role as BIM is an innovative and emerging new field. When not implementing new software and processes to better the flow of engineering data within Exyte Hargreaves, we handle the transfer of models from lead appointed party to the CAD and project teams. The most valuable thing I've learned so far is the process of information management through ISO 19650.
What are your career aspirations and how will the apprenticeship scheme help you to achieve them?
One of the things I’ve learnt already so early on in my career from originally starting out as a draughtsman apprentice then transferring into BIM is that your aspirations can change and new opportunities that you weren’t aware of can arise. Because of this I’m very open minded to all of the different opportunities that will be available to me in the future and have decided not to set specific goals. For now, I’m happy working in BIM and focusing on completing my apprenticeship and look forward to seeing where this path takes me.
What is involved in your current day to day responsibilities?
The cool thing about BIM is there’s always something new to do every day and always something new to learn. BIM is not just new for the company, it’s new for the industry. This means me, Tom, Doga and Pete must be on the cutting edge. Something I'm proud to have worked on was the many innovative techniques used in the production of the Keadby Plantroom.
What aspect of your role do you enjoy the most?
I like seeing a new model for the first time and seeing Exyte Hargreaves’ input to the wider project.
What challenges have you had to overcome?
I am a young gay guy in an aging, typically very masculine industry with sometimes outdated attitudes, assumptions and misconceptions. It can sometimes make me feel I have to dodge more personal questions when colleagues make polite conversation. Relaxed conversation on LGBTQ issues in the workplace can be a healthy way to correct misconceptions, resulting in a more open atmosphere.
What do you think will be the next big step in advancing technology in the industry?
AR and VR, undoubtably. Engineering drawings will always have their place, but I forsee Augmented Reality surpassing Navisworks in visualizing the entirety of a project and your contributions within in the close future.
Who inspires you?
I am inspired by Doga’s confidence in the things she does. There will always be those who oppose innovation, preferring their slower, tried and true methods. The problem with this is that you eventually end up struggling to communicate, because as new, faster software comes along, the industry develops techniques and procedures to best use it. This cycle will repeat and before long you’re practically speaking a different language. Doga has a constant optimism for new techniques and she is a huge factor in the development of the digital side of the company.
What advice would you give to someone who is thinking of starting a career in BIM?
Your role may already be considered part of BIM, as at the core of BIM is efficiency in communication. It is a wide field, and it pays to be informed.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I attend a lot of punk rock shows and my fave artists include IDLES, The Fall, Black Country New Road, black midi, Jeff Rosenstock, Gang of Four, Sonic Youth, glass beach and Radiohead.
