From Classroom to Construction: Building Success from the Ground Up!
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As part of Scottish Apprenticeship Week, Pat Munro is celebrating the success of Team member Mateusz Szulc, who last year completed his Modern Apprenticeship in Construction & Civil Engineering Operations.
Since joining the company in June 2023, Mateusz has combined hands-on site experience with time spent training at the National Construction College Scotland in Renfrew. Throughout his apprenticeship, he impressed mentors and colleagues alike with his strong work ethic, commitment and willingness to learn.
Reflecting on his career choice, Mateusz said: "After leaving school and planning the first steps of my career, I knew one thing for certain: I wanted a practical role".
Although he had not always been set on civil engineering or construction, he was clear that an office-based job was not for him. The apprenticeship route offered the ideal balance of earning while gaining industry-recognised qualifications and real-world experience.
Over the past three years, Mateusz has worked on a variety of projects, building up valuable skills across different environments. His standout project to date was the Mountrich Watermain Project, where he worked in the chambers as part of a contractor-led renewal of the watermain system.
This job provided new skills and experience and was a great learning opportunity,” he said.
Now qualified and working as a Ground Worker, no two days look the same. From concreting works to joinery tasks, his role takes him across different sites in all weather conditions, something he particularly enjoys. “Working out in either the cold or the warm weather, I enjoy it,” he added.
Safety has been one of the most important lessons throughout his apprenticeship, alongside developing the technical skills required on-site. He has also undertaken machinery training and is keen to build on this further. Looking ahead, Mateusz hopes to continue expanding his knowledge and experience within the industry, taking on new challenges and further training opportunities.
“Being able to carry out work safely and being trained on machinery is a key part of the job, and I’m looking forward to learning more so I can carry out different jobs in the future,” he said.
His Line Manager, Calum Urquhart, praised his progress: “Mateusz has worked well throughout his Apprenticeship and has gained a lot of skills from the workforce college and different work environments. We’re delighted to have him as part of our team.”
As Scottish Apprenticeship Week shines a spotlight on the benefits of work-based learning, Mateusz is clear about his recommendation to others considering the same path: “It’s a great way to earn while you learn, and you’ll gain a valuable trade in a safe and supportive environment.”
