A guide to prefabrication (and how it’s transforming construction)

While prefabrication is emerging as a sustainable innovation in the construction industry, it’s actually a concept that’s been around for thousands of years. The construction process is complex and multi-faceted.…

12 essential qualities of a great leader

What does it take to become a great leader in the built environment? Here are the traits and qualities of influential leaders, managers and mentors. From supply chain disruptions and…

The power of perseverance: turning disappointing A-levels into apprenticeship success

Like many young people, Querida Matondo heard about apprenticeships not through school, but by knowing someone who’d been through the experience: in this case, her sister. Name: Querida Matondo Company:…

Be Part of the Change podcast episode 8 – a day in the life of an apprentice

The built environment comprises a diverse and exciting range of sectors, but there is still a lack of representation at every level. We want this to change. ‘Be Part of…

From work experience to HS2: Taran’s apprenticeship journey with Arcadis

Taran’s path to his quantity surveying degree apprenticeship began six years ago when he secured work experience at Arcadis: the same company that now employs him. Name: Taran Barard Company:…

Quadrupling the Savills apprentice headcount: 226 and counting

“My manager always says I don’t blow my trumpet enough, but I feel lucky to be doing something that I truly love, and I just want to make a difference…

What is greenwashing (and how can you spot it)?

What are the different ways businesses attempt to remarket and camouflage their environmentally damaging products and operations? With concerns around the ongoing climate crisis growing and new legislation being set…

Proving why parents don’t need to choose between working, studying and having children

“The fact that I've been able to have a baby in the middle of doing all of this is remarkable!" Name: Jennifer Willis Company: VOA For Jennifer Willis, apprenticeships run in…

Growing hundreds of new Government employees at the VOA

Angie Leggett sat down with UCEM to discuss her role supporting 450 apprentices at the Valuation Office Agency - 250 of which are enrolled with UCEM. Name: Angie Leggett Job…

100 million-dollar fighter jets and American food: an MOD apprenticeship

Christopher's journey to becoming a Project Manager Apprentice with the Ministry of Defence showcases the breadth of opportunities available in the built environment. Name: Christopher Allen Job role: Project Manager…

Diagnosing the cladding crisis: the UK residents trapped in unsellable homes

The aftermath of the Grenfell Tower Fire continues to impact lives almost eight years on. But why has action been so slow? The last decade has been a time of…

“An opportunity on a plate”: studying for a Master’s degree apprenticeship

Rachel Harwood, Project Manager for South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership, is continuing her love of learning and education with UCEM for her second degree. Name: Rachel Harwood Job role:…