Christopher Atherton- BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering

MGF Ltd

Why did you choose a degree apprenticeship?

Having been working in engineering for the past ten years the degree apprenticeship allowed me to continue working and attend university on a part time basis with the support of my company.

Looking back over your time on the apprenticeship so far, how have you found the whole experience?

It’s been a massively positive experience. I have been given the opportunity to step outside of my own engineering comfort zone and branch off into different disciplines of engineering of which I wouldn’t usually be a part of.

What impact has your degree apprenticeship had in the organisation?

Being taught the different disciplines within other engineering backgrounds has allowed me to develop transferable skills which I have brought back into my own working environment. Through the knowledge and experience gained I have become a dependable member of MGF engineering team and have been promoted to an Engineering Team Leader role.

How would you describe the support that you’ve received from the University of Salford?

The support of the University from the day my apprenticeship started has far exceeded any expectations. The lecturers are knowledgeable, friendly and always willing to help in any situation. As a part of the apprenticeship you are assigned a personal tutor who you have regular meetings with to discuss any issues or to simply chat about the course or engineering work.

Do you have any advice for future degree apprentices?

Make the most out of your time, take in as much information as you can and make sure that you access support from your workplace sponsor. Working four days a week and attending university on day release can seem daunting at first, just make sure to have a good work/life/study balance and the rewards at the end will be all the better.

Would you recommend a degree apprenticeship?

Definitely, being able to work within the industry in tandem with getting the degree gives a more well-rounded experience combining theory with practical application.