I couldn't be behind a desk. Being outdoors all day really suits me.
Sally, 20
In my job
I work on a busy construction site at an airport for a company called Laing O’Rourke. I mark out where walls are to be built and check they are in the right place once they are built. I survey the jobs completed by different tradespeople on the site to make sure they all meet the correct quality standards. I also assist other engineers and the labourers on my team to make sure they have all the information they need to complete the build job.
At school
From a young age I knew I wanted to be an engineer. I was always quite practical, and my Grandpa was a Science teacher so I always had that influence. I chose to do Engineering GCSE and I chose to keep on with the Sciences and Maths.
At college
I did A-levels in Engineering, Geography and Maths and that took me on to my apprenticeship.
In my apprenticeship
I’m working and earning while I am learning. I do one day a week at college and four days at work, so I am getting hands-on, practical experience which breaks it all up nicely. I get support from university teachers, and work are really good - they give me study days if I have big exams coming up.
Top tips
Do work experience and part-time jobs. Just getting out there and giving stuff a go is helpful. I had a couple of weeks of work experience and that massively helped my application to get my current role.
What to expect if you want to be an engineer
- See what type of engineering role might suit you with the meet the future you quiz
- Find out more about the different areas of engineering with this guide from Tomorrow's Engineers
- Learn more about roles in engineering with the National Careers Service explore careers tool
- Discover a practical new way to study via T-levels (England-only).
The Bitesize Careers Podcast
Katie Thistleton, inspiring young guests and career experts chat all things careers.
Tips and advice
Help with interviews, writing a CV and other skills for work.
How to become an engineer. collection
Find out more about the engineering sector and how those currently working in it got their foot in the door.
Amy: Formula 1 engineer
Amy helps develop ways to make racing cars go faster.
Zoe: apprentice site engineer. video
Zoe's helping to build a London tube station.
