Where Has the Year Gone? Time Flies When You’re Having Fun!

Emily reflected:

“Every rotation has opened my eyes to a new part of the business. It’s been an exciting, fast-paced year that’s allowed me to grow both personally and professionally. I was surprised by how much goes into the estimating stage – it’s where the project starts to take shape long before work begins on site. The support from colleagues and their generosity with their knowledge has made each rotation smoother and more rewarding.

Each stage has built on the last, giving me strong technical and interpersonal skills, and I’m looking forward to taking on greater responsibilities next year.”

John added:  “Emily is a confident and determined member of the team – nothing fazes her. She’s also made an incredible contribution to Alzheimer’s Research, helping to raise £30,231 over the past year through events such as the Three Peaks Challenge, half marathons, charity balls, a 38-mile canal trek, and various sports tournaments. A fantastic achievement.”

Emily (left) carrying out a Health and Safety Inspection

Regan shared:

“A highlight so far has been meeting my colleagues and mentors, who I continue to learn so much from. The rotations have given me a well-rounded understanding of the business and the key roles in delivering a construction project. My biggest challenge has been balancing and organising my workload within a fast-paced project – but that’s also accelerated my learning.”

Outside of work, Regan successfully completed the National Three Peaks Challenge in under 24 hours, raising money for multiple charities.

Ross reflected on his experience:

“Since starting my rotations, I’ve been fortunate to work with teams that have always made me feel valued and included. My mentor has been instrumental in guiding me through both university work and developing new skills here at Russells. While the responsibilities can be challenging, I’ve always felt supported.

A personal highlight was joining the company’s internal 11-a-side football game – we didn’t win, but it was a great way to connect with colleagues!”

He added:  “The opportunity to apply classroom learning to real projects has been one of the most rewarding parts of my role. I’m grateful to be on this journey alongside the other students in my year – we push and support each other as a team.”

Regan (left) and Ross (middle) inspecting the brick specials

Rory, who has spent much of his first year on the commercial side, said:

“The in-house training complements the university syllabus perfectly, giving the ideal mix of theory and practice. I especially enjoyed the CFA Piling training session during National Apprenticeship Week.

Working as a Quantity Surveyor on the Mere Golf Resort project has been my favourite experience so far – it’s rewarding to see the progress on site first-hand. The programme has given me a broader understanding of the whole company, not just one department.”

John noted:  “Theoretical knowledge is important, but being able to apply it in a real-world setting is far more engaging and motivating. I know our internal presenters enjoy sharing their knowledge, and they find these sessions as rewarding as the students do.”

Rory honing his setting-out skills with the Total Station

Looking Ahead

Emily, Regan, Rory, and Ross – our ‘Fab Four’ – will soon begin their second year of studies at Salford University.  And in true Russell WBHO fashion, we’re already preparing to welcome the next cohort of Year 1 students on 1 September – or “fresh meat” as Ross has affectionately nicknamed them – shortlisted from more than 220 applications.

Emily has some advice for the incoming group:  “Be curious, ask questions, and take notes – it’s amazing how much you pick up just by listening.”

Watch this space – we’ll introduce our new recruits in the next update!

Hats Off!  1 Year down, 4 to to go….  Left to Right: Ross, Regan, Rory and Emily getting in practice for graduation at the end of Year 5!