For Igne Senior Field Technician Adam Charlesworth, taking the apprenticeship route has been a game-changer in his career.  His journey into civil engineering started in construction materials testing, but he soon realised there was a limit to where that could take him.

When the opportunity arose to grow his skills further through a Level 6 Civil Engineering Apprenticeship, he took it - proving that apprenticeships are not just for school leavers, but for anyone looking to upskill and develop their career.

Adam’s career took a significant turn when his former manager, Peter Godfrey, joined Igne and invited him to come on board.  Having previously worked under Peter and Darren Berrill in materials testing, it was a full-circle moment when Darren became his boss once again.

With his strong background in site-based work and years of hands-on experience on site and in the laboratory, Adam hit the ground running when he joined Igne in May last year.

His apprenticeship is a four-to-five-year day release course, and for Adam, it made complete sense to keep learning while working.  

Many traditional civil engineering degree courses don’t emphasise site-based experience, but Adam’s background meant he was well ahead of the curve.  When he spoke to the university about the course, they recognised his extensive practical knowledge and told him he’d excel in the apprenticeship programme.

The apprenticeship route brings undeniable advantages.  Unlike a purely academic pathway, where graduates often have to spend years gaining practical experience after university, apprenticeships allow students to build that hands-on expertise alongside their studies.

When it comes to professional accreditation with the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), apprentices often find it easier to gain Incorporated Engineer status because they already have real-world experience to support their case.  Traditional graduates, on the other hand, need to complete a four-year degree followed by about three years of practical work before they can apply.

Another major benefit?  Less debt.  

Adam has been earning while learning, gaining valuable industry experience and increasing his worth to his employer all the time.  And with most apprenticeships leading to permanent roles, it’s a career investment that makes perfect sense.

Adam’s career has evolved significantly since starting his apprenticeship, but he’s always been driven by hands-on experience.  In his earlier materials testing role, all his training was done in-house, without formal qualifications at the end.  Now, he is working towards a recognised qualification that will open even more doors in his career.

Outside of work, Adam is a self-proclaimed ‘cat dad’ to Shrimp, a tiny British Shorthair he and his partner rescued from the RSPCA.  Weighing just 2kg when they brought her home, she’s now thriving under their care.  

When he’s not working or spending time with Shrimp, Adam is a keen weightlifter and rock climber, with a love for the great outdoors.  Whether scaling rock faces in the Lake District or Snowdonia (Eryri), he thrives on the physical and mental challenge of climbing.  

A qualified climbing coach and instructor, he has even taught kids’ climbing sessions and worked as a Go Ape instructor, sharing his passion for adventure with others.

Finally, one of the things Adam values most about Igne is the strong sense of community within the Daventry team where he is based.  While much of the work is independent, there’s always support when it’s needed.  Whether it’s pulling together on-site or lending a hand back at the yard, the team steps up for each other.  

Supported by his managers and given plenty of opportunities for professional growth, Adam’s story is proof that apprenticeships are a smart choice for those who want to develop practical skills, gain qualifications, and build a career with real-world experience.

Let's give the last word to Adam's manager, Darren: "Adam is a pleasure to have on the team, his knowledge from his apprenticeship and his site experience have helped us as we continue to grow in Daventry."

If you’re looking for a way to advance your career while earning and learning, an apprenticeship with Igne could be the perfect opportunity for you.  No matter your career stage, get in touch today and take the first step towards a hands-on, rewarding career.