Role: Assistant Technician Level 3 Apprentice

Career Area: Engineering Design

Current Study Level: Level 3 Apprenticeship

Location: Manchester

My role at SYSTRA

I am an Assistant Technician working in the Civils team, who are responsible for designing various assets alongside the railway. In my role, I model and draw the designs created by engineers, ensuring that the visual representation accurately communicates our design intent.

A significant aspect of my work involves examination of models to guarantee seamless integration with other disciplines’ work, addressing issues like optimal distance from the rail, and avoiding clashes with other elements. Once the model aligns together, I translate it into detailed 2D drawings.

These drawings serve as the practical guide for the construction team on-site, providing them with the comprehensive information needed to effectively build the asset.

Why I chose an apprenticeship

I picked SYSTRA for my apprenticeship because I’ve always been curious about how construction works. When deciding between university and an apprenticeship, I sought advice from industry professionals who stressed the importance of real-world experience.

I have always valued the idea of learning through doing, and this apprenticeship allows me to try out different roles as I journey through the programme – something I wouldn’t get to do if I’d just pursued a degree! I believe this hands-on approach will give me a better understanding of the construction industry, helping to shape my career in a more practical way.

We asked Menashe…
How have your technical skills developed throughout your apprenticeship?

I have learnt to model in 3D using important modelling software such as MicroStation and Revit. I have also learnt to use different types of surveying equipment having gone out on site a few times.

How have you grown personally through doing an apprenticeship?

The apprenticeship requires time management skills in order to balance work and study – a skill which I’ve been able to apply more effectively in the last year, I believe as a direct result of my apprenticeship. I also feel like I’ve gained more effective communication skills through learning how to question things and improving my ability to present information.

What advice would you offer to someone who’s unsure if an apprenticeship is right for them?

I would encourage them to talk to industry professionals. Talking to others in the industry allowed me to see the value in learning at the same time as gaining practical work experience.

How does SYSTRA stand out as a great place to work?

My line manager has been really understanding and supportive throughout my apprenticeship journey so far. They’re always very accommodating of my requests to work in different roles to build up my experience. My colleagues are also always happy to share their advice and experience with me – it’s a really encouraging and supportive environment at SYSTRA.

What’s your favourite thing about your job right now?

I think it’s knowing that I am involved in some of the biggest rail projects in the UK right now, and that there’s a lot of opportunity to grow and learn more – that really excites me.

Diversity is powerful. What unique perspective do you offer as an apprentice?

As someone who alternates between an educational environment and the workplace within the same week, I bring topics that I learn about on my course (such as sustainability) right from the classroom to the workplace – I’m learning how to successfully translate this knowledge into application within the industry.

What would an entirely green future look like? How should our industry contribute?

In a fully green future, everyone needs to work together. Our industry can help by making sustainable solutions that are not only good for the environment, but also more cost effective for clients, and easier for contractors to build. We need to make sustainability affordable and simple. This way, the industry will embrace sustainability rather than trying to avoid it.

You can spend your lunchbreak with anyone you admire – who would you choose?

I think it would be Keith Howells, the president of ICE 2022/23.

What is your next big career goal?

I think my next big goal is to achieve status as an engineer!

What excites you about your career future?

I think it has to be the opportunity to help make people’s lives easier through building transport infrastructure – a critical part of everyone’s lives. Being a part of designing and building that is very exciting.

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