National Apprenticeship Week – Meet Kieran Brophy
Kieran Brophy joined VolkerStevin in 2023, he is a first year Quantity Surveyor degree apprentice who is based on our C2V+, a VolkerStevin and Jacobs joint venture, Congleton Wastewater Treatment Works. Kieran is 32 years old and previously worked in the automotive industry, but last year made the decision to change careers. Read below to find out how Kieran handled the transition into his apprenticeship and what motivated him to make the change.
Before joining VolkerStevin, what industry did you work in?
Before joining VolkerStevin I had a career in the automotive industry, working for Jaguar Land Rover in the production of their Range Rover Evoque and Discovery cars.
What was the driving force behind your change in careers?
My family. I was made redundant from my previous job and wanted to build a career which would provide a stable income to support them. After being made redundant I took some time to consider what I wanted to do next, I researched different industries and job roles and found the position of a quantity surveyor. After further research into the role, I decided this was what I wanted to do next and made the decision to change my career path.
How did you prepare yourself for your change in roles?
Before applying for any quantity surveying apprenticeships, I took the time to study. By taking this time I was able to get myself into a position where I felt ready to undertake a degree apprenticeship in quantity surveying. I knew the transition wouldn’t be easy, however by preparing myself I was able to get a head start on my studies.
How have you found your first year as a quantity surveying apprentice?
I have found that a lot of the skills from my previous jobs have been transferable to my new role, this has made the transition a lot smoother for me. I have also received a lot of support from the management and team around me, having this encouragement has given me a lot more confidence in my abilities and I have progressed a lot in such a short period of time.
What advice would you give to someone who is in a similar position to you and is considering an apprenticeship?
Do it! The support and advice you receive from your colleagues is invaluable and you get an experience you would never get doing a full-time degree. I have been able to watch projects develop, get hands on learning experience and develop new skills.
