Graduate Schemes are equally as beneficial for the employer as the graduate, allowing the employer to nurture the next generation of skilled professionals and providing the best environment to develop confidence and gain professional experience.
This month, we caught up with Dan Colley, Construction Manager, to speak about his time on Colas Rail UK’s Feature Leaders Graduate Programme. He explains how the scheme is structured, along with giving useful advice to prospective candidates.
Carry on reading to find out more about Dan’s educational background and time on the scheme:
Does your degree relate to construction?
My degree is in Geography and Environmental Science, so not entirely related.
What made you apply for this role?
I applied for the role as I wanted to do Project Management in a sector that was reasonably fast-paced and where I could leave a positive impact with the projects we complete. I like to think that the work we do provides a real change to people’s lives for the better and helps them to become connected with opportunities they otherwise wouldn’t have.
How is the Graduate Scheme run, and what support do you receive?
The grad scheme itself is a progressional one; a two-year course split over a series of six and 12 month rotations in different areas of the business.
I completed rotations in Heavy Rail, specifically with the OLE part of the Infrastructure Division, before moving to the MMA in 2018. During this time you shadow and are mentored by an existing Project Manager before quickly becoming Assistant to them and eventually taking on a similar role to them. You are also supported by a dedicated Graduate Scheme HR Manager who ensures your development is tracked and can be moulded to your interests and needs.
What advice would you give to students considering a Graduate Scheme?
Grad schemes are only as good as the participant. Individual effort will allow you to excel and benefit from the opportunity more, and it is not designed to spoon-feed you. If you do not try then you will not be successful, which is why they make the entry competitive – plus they are investing in your future so they want to pick their investments wisely! Also, start applying for grad schemes in your Second and even First year of University. They take time to apply for and often open early applications in your studies, so look and prepare early to avoid missing out on the best schemes and roles – you risk having to wait an extra year after your course is finished if you leave it too late.
After completing the scheme, Dan stayed within the MMA, progressing to his current role as Construction Manager, which has him overseeing multiple aspects of the Edgbaston Metro extension, from quality management to installation procedures and overall construction methodologies. He also plays an important role in the handover procedure alongside the Project Lead and Testing & Commissioning team.
Hear from Grace and Hamish who have also completed the Future Leaders Programme on our Connecting Futures page: Connecting Futures – Midland Metro Alliance
Or find out more about the Graduate Scheme here: Careers | Graduate Schemes | Colas Rail UK