Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2023 has started and we're delighted to announce our continued commitment to supporting the next generation of workforce with apprenticeships across our business.
To celebrate Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2023, we spoke with Sam Ferguson to ascertain his views on the industry.
Sam tell us about yourself and your time with Kilmac so far
Hi everyone, I am Sam Ferguson, Apprentice Civil Engineer. I started with Kilmac in July 2020, as soon as I came out of school. I always knew what I wanted to do, to be an engineer, so I was quite lucky when Athole McDonald offered me the opportunity. I am about to start my second year of my apprenticeship which is with Dundee and Angus college and I am really enjoying learning about the different areas so far.
When did you realise you wanted to pursue a career in Engineering?
I decided that I wanted to be a Civil Engineer while I was in high school. I have always been interested in the Civils industry and how things worked and although I was never "in love" with math and science, I did well in those subjects so it was always assumed by me, my parents and teachers that I would probably go into either engineering or into some technical field.
I also enjoy the problem-solving aspect of the job, especially as part of a team, as we're all close on site. I like the process of finding an issue, and then working with my team to try to figure out and find the best solution to the problem.
What has been your favourite project you have worked on to date and why?
I would say my favourite project to date would be Madras College for BAM.
New Madras - inside drone footage - YouTube
This was one of the largest projects Kilmac have completed to date so to be a Trainee on the job was a huge benefit to my learning.
Works on this contract consisted of the following, meaning I was involved in a range of aspects:
'I was chucked in at the deep end to be honest however this has now paid off as I am eager to learn new areas and comfortable with the challenges thrown at me'
Sam Ferguson
What would you say to anyone who is considering a career as a Civil Engineer?
'Go for it. Civil engineering is a rewarding, creative and fun job and no two days are the same. There’s more to it than muddy boots and concrete, Engineers work in teams to solve real-world problems, so if you’re a team player, it’s the perfect career for you.'
