11 February 2026
Building careers, not just qualifications
Apprenticeships have been part of MEC’s story for over 14 years, providing a clear and supported route into engineering for those at the very start of their careers, as well as for individuals transitioning into a new professional pathway.
Our Apprenticeship Programme combines hands-on project experience with structured study, allowing apprentices to earn while they learn and work towards recognised qualifications. Typically, apprentices split their time 80/20 between practical work and academic study, gaining real responsibility while building the technical knowledge needed for a long-term career in engineering.
To mark National Apprenticeship Week, we’re spotlighting three of our Civil Engineering Apprentices: Jack Wills, Michael Webb, and Ryan Green.
Jack and Michael both joined MEC in July 2022 and were shortlisted in the Young Apprentice of the Year category at the 2024 Young Professionals Awards, reflecting their continued development and contribution to the business. During his apprenticeship, Michael progressed into the role of Assistant Civil Engineer, demonstrating that professional growth and recognition can happen throughout the apprenticeship journey.
Ryan joined MEC in September 2024 following a career change from working in accounts at Mercedes. Transitioning into engineering, Ryan has brought a fresh perspective, enthusiasm, and valuable experience from outside the industry to our apprenticeship programme.
Jack Wills, Civil Engineering Apprentice
Jack’s role is primarily office-based, where his days are split between design work and learning from experienced engineers across the business. From morning project meetings through to producing and modifying designs using AutoCAD, PDS and Flow, Jack contributes to live infrastructure projects including roads and drainage systems.
Drawn to civil engineering through a love of problem-solving and maths, Jack was also motivated by the opportunity to design infrastructure that people will rely on for years to come. At MEC, the variety of projects and exposure to different engineering perspectives have played a key role in his development.
One of Jack’s proudest moments to date is his nomination for Young Apprentice of the Year, recognising the commitment and progress he has made early in his career. Alongside this, Jack has taken on increasing responsibility across a number of projects, including Brentwood, Great Glen, Barrow Road in Sileby, and High Street in Haversham, where he has played a key role in progressing designs and working closely with the wider project team and clients.
Jack’s advice to those considering an apprenticeship is: gain hands-on experience early and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Learning, he believes, comes fastest when you’re involved, supported, and curious.
Michael Webb, Assistant Civil Engineer
Michael’s role offers variety across housing developments and highway improvement schemes, with responsibilities ranging from drainage design to private levels and highway vertical alignments. His progression into the role of Assistant Civil Engineer during his apprenticeship reflects the responsibility and trust he has earned through his work.
His interest in engineering stems from a long-standing fascination with infrastructure, particularly roads and bridges, and the impact they have on the environments people live and work in. For Michael, civil engineering is about solving problems and delivering practical solutions that make a tangible difference.
At MEC, Michael values the constant exposure to new challenges and the support of experienced engineers who help him develop both technically and professionally. Passing his first three years at university, receiving positive client feedback, and contributing to fee-winning work are among the achievements he is most proud of.
Michael encourages future apprentices to ask questions at every opportunity, noting that learning from others is one of the most valuable aspects of the apprenticeship experience.
Ryan Green, Civil Engineering Apprentice
Ryan’s role involves a blend of practical project work and learning from the wider team. From supporting ongoing residential schemes and responding to client queries, to preparing technical information and assisting with approvals, no two days are the same.
He primarily works on residential developments, contributing to S104, S38 and S278 adoption packs, as well as private drainage and externals design. Through this, he has developed a strong understanding of how residential infrastructure projects progress from design through to delivery.
One of the biggest insights Ryan has gained since joining MEC is seeing the different ways engineers approach problem-solving. Exposure to a range of perspectives has helped him develop his own analytical thinking and reinforced that, in engineering, there is often more than one way to reach a solution.
A proud moment so far has been securing his first approvals on the very first residential scheme he worked on. Seeing the project now progressing on site, knowing he contributed to the adoption packs and coordinated information required for approval, has been particularly rewarding.
Ryan credits the team at MEC for playing a key role in his development, providing guidance, mentoring, and opportunities to take on increasing responsibility. His advice to anyone considering an apprenticeship is: keep an open mind, be proactive, and get involved. An apprenticeship offers the opportunity to gain hands-on experience, see projects come to life, and build the foundations for a long-term career in engineering.
Our Apprenticeship Programme at MEC
An apprenticeship at MEC is a fully employed role, offering structured support alongside real project responsibility from day one. Apprentices develop their skills through hands-on experience across live projects, supported by experienced engineers and ongoing academic study.
For those considering a career in civil engineering, the apprenticeship route offers a practical, supported pathway to building long-term technical expertise, professional confidence, and a meaningful career within the industry.
back