As National Apprenticeship Week celebrates the importance of learning on the job and fostering the next generation of skilled professionals, Van Elle is proud to highlight the success stories of three former apprentices who have grown with the company and are now playing pivotal roles as mentors.
These inspiring individuals not only showcase the incredible opportunities within the construction and ground engineering sector but also demonstrate how apprenticeships can provide the foundation for a rewarding and fulfilling career.
Here, Connor White, Project Manager, Olivia Bestwick, HR Manager, and Connor Reynolds, Fitter, share a summary of their experiences, apprenticeships, and mentoring journeys.
Conor White, Project Manager
“Since completing my apprenticeship in 2018, my career has progressed through various roles, including apprentice civil engineer, contracts manager, and currently, project manager overseeing the energy sector projects in Scotland.
“I have had the opportunity to work across multiple divisions at Van Elle, providing me with invaluable experience and laying a strong foundation for my long-term goal of advancing into leadership roles.
“My civil engineering apprenticeship combined practical experience with academic learning, helping me build skills in structural analysis, surveying, CAD, project management, and health and safety while I worked on real projects and earned professional qualifications.
“Managing my time effectively during the apprenticeship was challenging, but the skills I developed such as stakeholder management, problem-solving, communication, project management, adaptability, teamwork, and resilience have been key to my success.
“As one of the first higher-level apprentices at Van Elle, I didn’t have a role model who had followed the same path to look to for guidance.
“While I was fortunate to learn from supportive colleagues throughout the business, I now enjoy using my own experience to mentor apprentices.
“I aim to offer a perspective from someone who has been in their shoes and understands the challenges of studying and working in today’s fast-paced environment.
“The most rewarding part of mentoring is witnessing apprentices build their confidence, develop their skills, and progress in their careers.
“My advice to all apprentices is, to embrace every opportunity, never be afraid to ask questions, and always look for ways to expand your skills and experience.”
Olivia Bestwick, HR Manager
“I began my career as an apprentice in 2018 and have since progressed to the role of HR Manager, currently leading a fantastic team of four. During this time, I also completed my Level 3 and Level 5 CIPD qualifications.
“My apprenticeship laid a solid foundation for my career, equipping me with the skills and knowledge necessary to grow within the company. Balancing full-time work and studying was challenging at first, but with organisation, dedication, and support from my colleagues, I managed it well. Sticking to study schedules, seeking guidance, and applying real-life experience helped contribute to my success.
“Over the years, Van Elle has provided continuous support in my development, allowing me to take on new responsibilities and leadership opportunities. I am fortunate to be part of the leadership development programme, which further enhances my growth and prepares me for the future.
“My long-term career goal is to continuously develop professionally and personally, embracing new challenges that enable me to contribute effectively to the company’s success.
“I wanted to take on the role of supporting apprentices because of my past experiences and how much I took from my own experience.
“I never wanted to go to university, as I enjoyed working, but I also wanted to gain qualifications while doing so. Now, I have the opportunity to help others who feel the same way.
“The most rewarding part is seeing apprentices grow and develop throughout their programme. It’s great to see them gain confidence, build their skills and knowledge, and progress in their careers.
“Having experienced the apprenticeship route myself, I understand both the challenges it presents and the value it brings, so I truly enjoy mentoring and supporting others.”
Connor Reynolds, Fitter
“I joined the company in 2016, and since completing my apprenticeship, I have taken on more technical responsibilities, including managing PUWER inspections and mentoring others.
“I recently visited Barcelona to see and inspect one of our new rigs, soon to join our fleet, which was a great opportunity and a highlight of my career so far.
“One of the biggest challenges I faced was adapting my apprenticeship to the specific demands of piling rigs, which are not typically covered in college courses. While some concepts are similar, there are technical skills that can only be learned through hands-on experience on the job.
“Without practical exposure, I wouldn’t have gained the in-depth knowledge required to work with specialised equipment. The support from my manager, Craig Severn, has been valuable throughout my journey.
“Many people don’t realise that apprenticeships also help you develop crucial skills such as confidence, teamwork, and communication—skills that are essential in my current role.
“My goals for the future include working towards becoming a supervisor and obtaining further qualifications, ultimately aiming for my SMSTS certification.
“I was happy to take on the role of supporting current apprentices. I take pride in guiding them through the journey I experienced, helping with areas where I struggled and assisting them in overcoming similar challenges
“It’s important to look after current apprentices, especially because the fitter role isn’t always seen as a career people want to pursue. By providing the right support, guidance, and opportunities, we can help make the role more appealing and show its value, ultimately encouraging more people to consider it as a long-term career path.
“My advice to anyone considering an apprenticeship is to be open to learning, embrace every opportunity, and understand that the journey may have its challenges, but it’s all part of the process. Stay committed, ask questions, and never be afraid to seek help when needed – It will all pay off in the long run.”