Civil engineering is a field that plays an important part in shaping the infrastructure of our society. From roads to buildings, reservoirs to bridges, it maintains the framework for our environment. For those entering the sector, civil engineers often begin as an apprentice, blending formal learning with hands-on experience, which paves the way for a rewarding career.

Continuing with our series on apprenticeships within Barhale, Liam Griffiths is a prime example of a young civil engineer making a significant impact and gaining industry knowledge to make him a future leader in Barhale.

Liam’s background

Liam was already working in construction with his dad, installing flooring in warehouses when he thought about going down the civil engineering route. After speaking to a family friend who was already working for Barhale in the Yorkshire region, this gave him the motivation to apply himself, which in his words, “was the best thing I ever did.”

The apprenticeship

Starting with Barhale in September 2023 and North Lindsay University in Scunthorpe a month later, he is now 9 months into a 3-year course which he is thoroughly enjoying. He states that he loves the fact that he is working towards something rather than just working on construction sites without any goal.

As well as learning the theory at college, he supports his academia with practical experience on site. “I have been working on our site in Dewsbury, Yorkshire where the project consists of building three new wastewater tanks. My work consists of setting out, offsetting, laying pipes and reinforcing steel fixes.” He has had to learn how to use the software required to carry out his role, which is primarily for the project drawings. He also works with other construction staff assessing dig levels and positions of pipes.

Progress and highlights

Liam’s progress has been good. He has been learning some vital skills and is embracing this opportunity, especially as a new entrant to the industry, knowing nothing about civil engineering pre-Barhale. “When I started, I probably would have said I literally know nothing about civil engineering, whereas now, there’s been a few days where  I’ve  been on-site on my own and it’s good experience for me.” A particular highlight for Liam was when he had the opportunity to work independently whilst covering annual leave. This was a great personal challenge for him to prove himself capable as the only engineer on site. More importantly, he received fantastic feedback upon the engineer’s return. He felt really pleased that he was able to rise to the challenge successfully. 

In Liam’s private life, he likes keeping active. He plays football, which he has done since he was a child and is also a massive Man City fan. Aside from football, Liam has started playing golf in his spare time. 

Career opportunities 

Although focusing on his career path and the apprenticeship for the moment, he recognises that this route can open a lot of doors, particularly for project management, which is something he would like to work towards in the future. Liam recommends the apprenticeship as a route into a career in civil engineering. He believes that the combined experience and the theoretical knowledge that you gain is a fantastic way to get qualified. He personally feels that it is a lot better than doing just a course and then going on to site mainly because of the practical skills you can gain simultaneously, which makes you more employable. In fact, he has successfully recommended a friend to Barhale who has now also secured a position working in the Yorkshire region. 

Brian Harrold, senior project manager (Yorkshire region) adds: “Over the past year, Liam has developed well as an apprentice engineer and has become a trusted team member. He’s learning both from colleagues and at college and applying his new skills and knowledge on-site. Through coaching and mentoring, he will continue to develop the practicable skills he needs to become an engineer.”

We wish Liam all the best for his future at Barhale and his career goals to qualify as an engineer.