Celebrating growth and development during National Apprenticeship Week.

National Apprenticeship Week is an important week across the industry — a chance to celebrate the value apprentices bring to businesses and the rewarding career paths that apprenticeships create.

At Wilten Construction, developing people is a core part of who we are. We grow talent from within, opening doors for people to build long‑term careers, and providing the right support to help individuals progress.

This year, we are proud to shine a spotlight on our two current apprentices who are balancing university study with real‑world experience on our projects: George and Chris.

Both spend one day a week at Birmingham City University studying Quantity Surveying, while spending the rest of the week working within Wilten's commercial team. Their journeys perfectly reflect our commitment to inspiring and nurturing young people to exceed, values that form a big part of the Wilten approach.

We took the opportunity to ask our apprentices why their apprenticeships are important to them, how they are being supported, and what advice they give to other apprentices starting their careers in construction.

George — Assistant Quantity Surveyor

George is undertaking a Quantity Surveying apprenticeship while working as an Assistant QS in our commercial team. His day-to-day work ranges from valuations and take‑offs to variations, instructions, and forecasting.

What do you enjoy most about your apprenticeship?

“The best part of my apprenticeship has been learning from and working alongside experienced and knowledgeable individuals.”

What lessons have you learnt?

“My favourite lesson so far has been uncovering the intricacies of different construction packages and understanding how they all piece together into a finished project.”

What has the support been like from Wilten?

“The Wilten team have different backgrounds and knowledge and are always willing to help."

“I value being trusted to work independently while still having guidance whenever I need it.”

What challenges have you faced and what have you achieved? 

“Coming in with limited experience in some trades, I leaned on the team’s expertise — and I ask plenty of questions.”

“I’m proud of my decision to join Wilten, which has significantly improved my construction knowledge and built my confidence as an aspiring main‑contractor quantity surveyor.”

What advice would you give to others starting an apprenticeship?

“Always ask questions and get stuck in.”

Chris — Trainee Quantity Surveyor

Chris is also completing a Quantity Surveying apprenticeship at BCU, following the chartered pathway. His work includes supporting multiple projects through measurements, valuations, variations, and contract preparations.

What do you enjoy most about your apprenticeship?

“Working directly alongside a variety of experienced professionals across commercial, operational and design departments.”

“This broad exposure is helping me build a deep understanding of the industry early in my career.”

What lessons have you learnt?

One standout takeaway for Chris is:

“The value of building good relationships both internally and externally.”

What has the support been like from Wilten?

“The depth of experience across all departments means there’s always someone who can help.”

“Coming from an infrastructure background, Chris found the transition new and challenging — but regular questions and supportive colleagues helped him quickly settle in.”

Have you had any proud moments?

“Maintaining good academic standing at BCU while assisting on multiple projects at Wilten.”

What advice would you give to future apprentices?

“Don’t hesitate to ask questions and gain as much on‑site experience as possible.”

Why Apprenticeships Matter at Wilten

National Apprenticeship Week is a perfect reminder of the importance of investing in the next generation of construction professionals.

At Wilten, apprenticeships are more than a route into construction; they provide a pathway to long‑term careers, personal and professional growth, and opportunity. We are committed to:

• Supporting learning and development

• Encouraging curiosity and questions

• Building confidence through hands‑on experience

• Growing our people and promoting from within

George and Chris are excellent examples of how powerful apprenticeships can be when backed by genuine support and opportunities to learn.

Sam Megeary Wiltens Surveying Director commented:

“It is a pleasure to see the progress of our two aspiring surveyors in Chris & George. Their enthusiasm, professionalism, and commitment to learning have already made a meaningful impact within the business. As they continue to develop their technical skills and industry knowledge, we are confident they will play an increasingly important role in supporting our clients and strengthening our project delivery capabilities. We look forward to supporting their continued growth and celebrating their future successes.”

We are proud of their progress and will continue championing apprenticeships as a vital part of Wilten’s future.