The project, a landmark cultural space backed by Manchester City Council will become Manchester International Festival’s permanent home, presenting an ambitious and world-class year-round programme of major artists from across the globe. A central tenet of the project’s delivery is the commitment that all parties have made to investing in future talent, and the Laing O’Rourke team has created engaging work placements which give local young people an insight into the built environment.
In 2019, Oscar and Oliver both undertook work experience placements with The Factory project team and now have apprenticeships working alongside some of the most experienced industry minds. As Laing O’Rourke Professional apprentices, Oscar and Oliver combine work-based experience with off-the-job training, earning while they learn. The fully funded programme will lead to a degree-level qualification, with a route to professional accreditation.
Oscar’s story
Oscar began his experience with The Factory working for one of the project’s consultant teams. During this period he became interested in Laing O’Rourke’s role as management contractor on the project and was seconded for a year into Laing O’Rourke’s Summer and Industrial Placement after which he secured full-time employment as a Trainee Planner – a role he has been carrying out since September 2020.
He said: “Taking part in the one-year placement I was able to learn from some of the best people in the industry. It opened my eyes to all aspects of a construction project and allowed me to develop my own skills. I was able to see my contributions and the affect I have had on the project.
“Since joining the Laing O’Rourke apprenticeship programme and throughout my time with the business to date, I feel as though I am a valued member of the team and I am still learning from the best. Laing O’Rourke’s development opportunities are unmatched within the industry and I can use my new skills in order to benefit the project.”
Oliver’s story
Oliver initially came to Laing O’Rourke in 2019 to carry out a week-long work experience programme with the Commercial team, after which he decided to apply for a degree apprenticeship with the company, (now known as a Professional apprenticeship), kick starting his career as a Quantity Surveyor. Oliver has been a full-time member of Laing O’Rourke’s Commercial team working on The Factory since September 2020 as a Trainee Quantity Surveyor.
He said: “Whilst being on site and completing work experience with the Quantity Surveying team it made me more curious as to what the job entails. This led to more work experience with Gardiner and Theobald also based in Manchester. After researching about the programmes Laing O’Rourke offers, I decided to apply as part of the degree apprenticeship scheme. After the interview process, I was awarded a place and allocated The Factory which was perfect as I live locally in Manchester and was keen to be involved following my work experience on the project.
“This apprenticeship opportunity has allowed me to gain a large number of skills. I have been given training courses to help maximise how efficiently I work, as well as slowly being exposed to the tasks I will have to undertake daily. Although working from home has made it difficult, I believe it has helped me to become a better communicator as well as helping me feel more confident, by talking me through steps over a call. In addition to this Laing O’Rourke has encouraged me throughout, to never be afraid to ask questions and get as much support as I can. Overall, I think I have had a successful journey so far and I believe that I still have many other untapped skills that will become apparent in the future.”
Winston Watson, Project Leader, said: “Inspiring young minds is a key part of our programme at The Factory and we are proud to have talented individuals such as Oscar and Oliver as part of our team. The Factory is one of the biggest developments of its kind in Europe, so a great project for them both to start their careers.”
If Oscar and Oliver's stories have inspired you, then visit our Professional Apprenticeships page for more information and to apply for one of our opportunities.
