Learning on the job has been “priceless”, says trainee Brandon

Commercial trainee Brandon Warwick has housebuilding in his blood – with his father, grandfather and uncles all working in the industry.

Joining Cora in September 2021 while studying at the University of Wolverhampton, Brandon said learning on the job has given him “priceless” real-life experience of the sector.

Here, to mark Apprenticeship Week, Brandon writes about his experience of working at Cora, and how he would urge others to consider an apprenticeship.

A family trade

I have grown up around construction all my life – most of my family are in the business so I’ve always wanted to get into it myself.

My grandad, my dad and all his brothers worked in construction so I’ve been brought up in the trade.

I’m currently in my fourth year of a five-year degree studying to become a chartered surveyor, with one day at university and the rest of the week at Cora.

Working at Cora has given me great, hands-on experience in the industry. That real-life experience – learning on the job – is priceless.

Some of the people you are friends with at university, they are learning out of a textbook while I am learning from experience.

You do things you just don’t learn at university, you don’t get that exposure in a classroom.

Life at Cora

I love it here at Cora – it’s brilliant.

The trust you get from the company is amazing. Even though you are an apprentice you don’t feel like one, you feel like one of the team.

I am now running my own site under supervision, helping with any commercial dealings, payments and contractors on site.

You get given responsibility and a chance to prove yourself. You are one of the team, straight from the start.

I really enjoy it at Cora and it’s a local company to me.  There’s such a great atmosphere and working environment here too.

I would definitely like to stay at Cora once I have completed my degree.

To any other young people considering a career in construction, I would say they should consider an apprenticeship.

Not only has it helped grow my skills and knowledge massively, it has helped grow my confidence

too.

If you are thinking about a career in construction and would like more information about apprenticeships, please get in touch via https://cora.uk/contact-us/