Apprentices in the water industry
Hear from current apprentices about what it's like to work in the water sector and why it’s so rewarding.
People of all ages and backgrounds are attracted to working in the water industry because of the variety of roles on offer. By 2030, the sector is set to recruit 50,000 people which includes up to 5,000 apprentices over the next five years – a 25% increase. You might expect to see engineers and technicians, but there are also roles in human resources, data science, surveying and developer services - to name just a few.
Apprentices across the water industry consistently highlight the opportunity to learn on the job while gaining practical skills and working towards their qualifications. Many speak positively about the supportive culture, where colleagues are welcoming and questions are encouraged. Apprentices feel they have become more confident through taking courses, visiting sites and learning from more experienced colleagues.
With water companies located across the UK anyone looking for new skills and opportunities can find out more about apprenticeships from their local water company.
Higher Level Apprentice – Science, Northern Ireland Water
Ciara
Ciara discovered her role at an apprenticeship fair during Northern Ireland National Apprenticeship Week. Since joining, she has completed a range of training courses, including water safety and fire safety. Before starting work in the lab, she visited both clean and wastewater sites which helped her understand the different parts of the industry and how they work together. For anyone considering an apprenticeship, Ciara's advice is to "research into the role and talk to people in the field to make sure it's the right fit for you."
It's a great way to gain new skills whilst working and securing yourself a long term career.
Human Resources Apprentice, Severn Trent
Yaawa
Yaawa is currently completing an apprenticeship at Severn Trent and says she is “absolutely loving” the experience. She enjoys working with a wide range of people, from work experience students to colleagues and external stakeholders, and has had the chance to visit sites and see frontline teams at work. She first learned about opportunities at Severn Trent during sixth form from former students sharing their experiences and now sees herself building a long-term career there.
Seeing behind the scenes operations in the water industry has given me a real appreciation for the engineering behind high water quality.
Quantity Surveyor Apprentice, Anglian Water
Lewis
Lewis found his apprenticeship through the Anglian Water @one Alliance LinkedIn page and was drawn to the opportunity to work on projects that positively impact society. He enjoys the role's variety and the chance to learn about the industry’s scale and collaborative nature. After qualifying as a Quantity Surveyor, he hopes to move into a management role and mentor other apprentices. His advice is, "Get involved with work experience, extra qualifications and volunteering events related to the industry to stand out."
Thames offers great training opportunities, like courses on Excel and water treatment processes, which helped a lot.
Project Engineering Apprentice, Thames Water
Faris
Faris’s week includes project scoping, contractor engagement and hands-on site activity, offering him a fast-paced and varied experience. He is already supporting and leading multiple maintenance projects while studying Construction and the Built Environment at university. He says he values the hands-on nature of the projects and the opportunity to see real impact on both customers and the environment.
Colleagues are always happy to help and explain what they do, which has been especially beneficial since I came from outside the industry.
Data Protection Apprentice, Northumbrian Water
Grace
Grace has gained valuable insight into the wider business through a wide range of opportunities such as visiting reservoirs, attending events and meeting their CEO. She hopes to work her way up within the organisation and continue developing along the data protection route. Her advice is to other is "take your time, enjoy learning from people with more experience and don’t feel pressured to know everything."
For anyone considering a career change later in life, take the leap - I did and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I ever made.
Maintenance and Operations Engineering Technician, Southern Water
Cameron
Cameron was immediately drawn to an apprenticeship because of the focus on continuous learning and personal development. He values the company culture at Southern Water, noting, “I can tell that teamwork is key here and have felt really looked out for as a first-year apprentice.” Cameron is keen to further develop his skills and make a positive contribution to his team and the business. He describes his apprenticeship as a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity.
My colleagues are very caring and supportive. There is no such thing as a silly question here.
Laboratory Scientist, South West Water
Chris
Chris is coming to the end of his two-year Level 3 BTEC in Applied Science. He previously worked in South West Water’s Customer Service team, having completed a business and administration apprenticeship in 2012. With a three year old at home, the opportunity to learn at work has given him access to higher levels of education that would not have been possible otherwise.
Contact your local water company to find out about the apprenticeships they offer