Meet 3D modeller apprentice, Matthew

Working within our geomatic consultancy team in Huddersfield, he’s able to complete his course and gain his qualification whilst gaining hands-on experience at the same time. We sat down with Matthew for National Apprenticeship Week to have a quick chat about his course, how it’s going and what he’s planning for the future.

Hi Matthew, how are you?

Good, thank you!

Can you tell me a little bit more about your apprenticeship with us?

It’s a design and drafting apprenticeship. One day a week, I take a placement day to complete the B-Tech section of my course. Towards the end of the course, it’s broken up into assessment sections where I complete four design projects. There’s also an exam where I’ll have to design something made from masonry, woodwork or steel – whichever works best – and that’s the final project that’s assessed.

Why did you choose Geomatics/3D Modelling?

I’m really interested in the construction of buildings and understanding how they’re designed and built, as well as all the rules and regulations behind how you draw and the rules of drawing.

Can you tell me your favourite project that have been involved with since you’ve been with us and why?

I think it would probably be Halifax Town Hall – even though it’s probably the most difficult project I’ve worked on. It was the most detailed project I’ve worked on and the whole exterior of the building had to be 3D modelled in loads of detail.

What do you enjoy most about your Apprenticeship?

I enjoy every day. I love that I’m given the same amount of work as everyone else in the department and I’m expected to do the same, so I really feel like I’m part of the team. However, there’s an understanding that I’m still learning and I might be a little slower or need a little extra time or help and everyone is so supportive of this.

What do you look forward to learning/doing in the future?

I’ve recently qualified for my flying license, so I’m really excited to take our new drone out for some surveying and just generally getting out to site more often. I’m also looking forward to helping with some larger projects.

What’s the best thing about working at AHR?

The team is great and everyone has made me feel so welcome from day one. There’s also flexibility so I can change my hours if needed to work my study days in. I’m also given a day a week to work on college assignments and assessments and prepare for final projects.

What’s next?

My apprenticeship will be completed this summer – June or July - and then I’ll be staying at AHR and employed as a 3D Modeller so I can continue working in the same team which is perfect!

We are proud to offer apprenticeships within our practice. To discover more about what life is like as an apprentice, visit our careers page.