Harrison James, a Construction and Built Environment learner at Cardiff and Vale College, recently enjoyed further developing his skills with a paid summer internship with construction, development and property services company Wates Group.
Harrison decided to join the internship scheme following a talk by Wates given at the College, organised with the College’s employer engagement arm CAVC for Business. During the four-week programme, he spent time with Wates’ Design, Operations, Commercial, Health and Safety, Procurement, Social Value and Developments teams as well as travelling to Salford University for a week-long residential with the other Wates summer interns.
While on the internship, Harrison was able to further cultivate his interest across commercial design with a view to applying for Wates’ Management Trainee Scheme.
Harrison said: “My experience at Wates was extremely valuable. Through a variety of experiences, it helped teach me much more than I would have picked up at college.
“The experience will benefit me in the future when I hope to return through the Management Trainee Scheme. It was a pleasure to work with Wates, and I look forward to returning in the future.”
Sophie Paterson, Wates Group Social Value Adviser for Wales, said: “Working with Harrison over the course of his @watesgroup four-week internship was a great experience. His zest for learning, and his eagerness to make a positive contribution to our work was apparent from the outset.
“He threw himself into every task we gave him, and he impressed us with his eye for detail. He conducted himself in a professional, and conscientious manner, which are skills that are not always apparent in those so young. We very much enjoyed working with him, and we look forward to seeing how his career journey unfolds.”
Wates Group and CAVC for Business have been working in close partnership for more than five years, providing CAVC learners with a range of opportunities ranging from work placements, site visits, employability sessions to industry talks. Wates are also part of CAVC’s Construction and Building Services Employer Advisory Board, helping ensure the College’s curriculum meets current and future industry needs.
CAVC Principal Sharon James-Evans said: “At CAVC we pride ourselves in offering opportunities that are more than just a classroom and the invaluable work experience Harrison has had over his summer internship is proof of that.
“Harrison has used this experience to demonstrate his dedication and commitment to a career in the built environment and impressed the team at Wates – I am sure he will go far in the future.”