My Stantec Story: Exploring being an apprentice civil engineer with Charlie Anne Briggs
November 07, 2024
Charlie Anne shares her experience as an apprentice civil engineer working with our Infrastructure group in Taunton
In the My Stantec Story series, our designers, engineers, marketers, project managers, and leaders come together to share how their career journeys at Stantec have shaped their lives and moved them closer to their goals.
Tell us about your role…
As an apprentice civil engineer, my role involves a daily mix of learning and hands-on experience. Based in the Taunton office, I work closely with engineers on a variety of infrastructure projects involving highway and sustainable drainage design. I typically assist with detailed drawings and plans using CAD software.
I also attend Exeter University on a two-week block release rotation, where I am working towards achieving a Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering over a five-year apprenticeship.
What attracted you to a career at Stantec?
What first attracted me to a career at Stantec was the development opportunities. Prior to starting here, I left college with A-levels in mathematics, geography, and graphic design—I know, quite a mix!—and decided to go straight into employment because I knew I didn’t want to go to university full-time. After about two gap years working as a learning support assistant at a primary school, I reached out to Stantec after seeing that they offered amazing apprenticeships. Many were related to my A-levels as well as my interests in natural and urban environments and how they impact communities. The prospect of contributing to projects that can enhance people’s lives and shape the environment we live in encouraged me to apply for an apprentice role with Stantec.
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What do you enjoy most about your role?
Currently, I’m most enjoying learning how to use CAD and Civil 3D for drawings and modelling. I found that it was similar to learning Adobe software for graphic design at college. However, this time the drawings I created relate to real life projects, which is incredibly rewarding. I also quite enjoy the problem-solving aspect of civil engineering, where each project presents unique challenges that require innovative and sustainable solutions.
How has your personal and professional development been supported at Stantec?
I’m fortunate to work with experienced engineers who share their knowledge and give feedback to help develop my technical skills. I have regular one-on-one reviews with my line manager, workplace mentor, and academic mentor to receive structured feedback highlighting strengths and outline development paths. I have access to resources that support my academic studies. Stantec also encourages attendance at relevant webinars and conferences, which provide additional learning opportunities, such as Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) presentations or Developing Professional Group (DPG) events. Stantec being multidisciplinary provides extra opportunities like secondments, which is quite unique.
I reached out to Stantec after seeing that they offered amazing apprenticeships. Many were related to my A-levels as well as my interests in natural and urban environments and how they impact.
What has been the standout project for you during your time at Stantec?
The North Devon Link Road project stands out as a particular highlight because I’ve gotten to see the detailed design drawings we’ve worked on being constructed. This summer, I have often drove to the beaches in North Devon, pointing out the different works to whoever was fortunate (or unfortunate) enough to be with me! Working on local projects such as this is great, and seeing the positive impact makes it very rewarding.
What are your ambitions for your future at Stantec?
As I’m only in my first of the five-year civil engineering degree apprenticeship, I look forward to continued growth and being able to advance my technical skills. Currently, I’m enjoying being involved in lots of different types of work, with the aim of using the experience in these areas to outline potential future expertise. Completing the degree and obtaining a professional certification with ICE are significant milestones I hope to achieve in the future.
What are your passions outside of work?
Outside of work I enjoy being active and outdoors. This could be playing 11-a-side football, cycling, or running. But this summer, I started to surf! I find that that these activities help create a healthy balance with being in the office for most of the day. I’m also a big fan of anything creative, particularly painting or graphic design.
Why should others join the Stantec team?
I think that Stantec offers great development opportunities and has a wide range of career paths that people can choose from (not just engineering), making it definitely worth considering joining the team.
At Stantec, we put people first. For Charlie Anne, that means getting to explore the difference facets of what a career in engineering can offer.