London QUEST Scholars tell ICE London how the scholarship has helped them to pursue their chosen career path.

Name: Sean Patrick Butler
Company: Halcrow Group Limited, a CH2M HILL company
Role: Transport Planner

Tell us about yourself
I am currently in the second year of my apprenticeship with Halcrow Group Ltd and the final year of my Edexcel BTEC level 3 diploma in construction and the built environment.

Whilst studying for my A-levels, I decided to apply for civil engineering apprenticeships alongside my university application due to the university fee increases.  I received the grades required for my university place - and I was offered an apprenticeship. I opted to take up the apprenticeship with Halcrow as I saw this as too good an opportunity to turn down; to work for one of biggest and most successful civil engineering companies in the world, to gain invaluable experience and to study on a good course whilst being paid. In comparison, there was no certainty of a job after university, only debts that would have to be paid off.

During my first year at Halcrow I have had the opportunity to work on large scale projects such as Crossrail,  the construction of the Olympic park, London Underground projects and Network rail projects to name a few. I have also visited Crossrail project sites including Paddington, Tottenham Court Road (London Underground and Crossrail) and Bond Street.

Why did you apply for the QUEST Technician Scholarship?
I discovered the QUEST Technician scholarship when browsing on the ICE website, and reading about previous winners’ experiences I saw that this was another great opportunity.

I saw that the award could give both financial benefit and invaluable prestige. To be recognised by your professional institution is a major achievement, so if I won the award, it would indicate to my employer, colleagues and clients that the Institution of Civil Engineers recognises me as a young civil engineer with significant ability and the potential to excel.

What has the scholarship meant for you?
Winning the scholarship has delivered everything I expected and more.  The scholarship has served me well at work, giving me greater confidence and demonstrating my capabilities to my employer.  As a result, I have been given more challenging roles, responsibilities and opportunities.

The financial backing of the scholarship has also helped in my academic learning; I’ve been able to buy better text-books and attend courses that have built on my knowledge and skillset.  I anticipate that the award will benefit me in the future, enhancing my CV and portfolio for ICE Professional Review. I don’t think that I could have achieved as much in my career so far, without the QUEST Technician Scholarship.

Name: Andrew Gibbons
Organisation: London Borough of Redbridge
Role: Trainee Designer, Traffic Engineering Team

Tell us about yourself
When I was awarded the scholarship I was participating in a Level 3 BTEC as well as a Level 3 NVQ. I have successfully achieved both and have now moved onto a HNC in civil engineering. I look to progress further to gain a degree in specific civil engineering subjects, to aid my progression both educationally and in my current job role.

Tell us about where you work and your current role
When I applied for the QUEST Technician Scholarship I was a Highways apprentice for the London Borough of Redbridge. After I received the award, I applied for a full time position and was successfully appointed as a trainee designer in the Traffic Engineering team of the London Borough of Redbridge. In this role I assist in the design of traffic calming schemes for the local highways network. Much of my work is carried out on AutoCAD as well as taking measurements on site.

Why did you apply for the QUEST Technician Scholarship?
I knew that if I was successful in my application for the QUEST Technician Scholarship it would greatly enhance my CV and enable me to stand out from the crowd for potential employers. This would hopefully give me the edge over other applicants when applying for a job.

Do you think that your scholarship will help you in your civil engineering career?
Being recognised by a professional body relevant to your area of work can only ever be beneficial. Being awarded the scholarship has helped me gain recognition for my achievements and has given me the opportunity to network with like-minded individuals that have the same interests and are also working towards a similar goal.

Why do you think eligible candidates should apply for the scholarship?
The QUEST Technician Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity that shouldn’t be missed. It is a simple process to apply, and the experience you gain through completing the application forms and attending the interviews is great professional development.