Cambridge Investment Partnership Celebrates National Careers Week by Showcasing Career-Changing Journeys in Bricklaying
As National Careers Week supports young people to develop awareness and excitement about their future pathways, Cambridge Investment Partnership (CIP) is proud to celebrate the success of Cambridge residents who have embraced new career paths through hands-on training in the construction industry, contributing to several CIP developments in Cambridge.
Cambridge Investment Partnership (CIP), the equal partnership between Cambridge City Council and award-winning housebuilder, The Hill Group is committed to training and development by offering apprenticeship and work placement opportunities across all its developments in Cambridge. Apprenticeships provide the ideal balance of classroom learning and hands-on experience, creating pathways to career progression, financial stability, and personal fulfilment.
Tom Hill, Managing Director of The Hill Group comments, "At CIP, we are committed to nurturing future talent by working closely with local schools and partners like NHBC and GSQ Brickwork through our NHBC Training Hub to create clear pathways into the construction industry. Apprenticeships are the foundation of a thriving sector, equipping the next generation with the skills and experience needed to deliver high-quality homes and sustainable communities in Cambridge. We are delighted to see so many success stories of apprentices emerging from our CIP developments."
Building a Future: Ed’s Career Change
Ed left a desk job as a Product Manager to pursue his passion for hands-on, outdoor work. “I missed being outside and wanted a career where I could work with my hands,” he says.
His apprenticeship has been rewarding, with mentors praising his skills early on. “My mentor said my first wall was ‘spot on’—a huge confidence boost.”
Ed values the challenge and precision of bricklaying and encourages others to apply themselves. “You’ve got to work hard and put in the effort. The more you apply yourself, the more you’ll get out of it. It’s a tough journey, but if you’re willing to put in the work, it’s worth it.”
Following in His Brother’s Footsteps: Dan’s Journey
Inspired by his brother’s success on an apprenticeship, Dan joined the GSQ Brickwork apprenticeship and is thriving in the mix of hands-on training and classroom learning.
“James told me how much he was learning and how good the apprenticeship was,” Dan says. “It just seemed like a natural step to follow in his footsteps. I work with my mentor to ensure top-quality work. The team is always there to guide me,” he says.
Rotating between site work on CIP developments and training at the NHBC hub, Dan is gaining valuable experience. “Every day, I’m improving and excited about what’s next.”
A Fast-Track to Success: Jay’s Story
Jay initially planned a career in the Navy but found his path in bricklaying through an accelerated apprenticeship with GSQ Brickwork and the Cambridge Training Hub. Fourteen months later, he has now completed his apprenticeship.
“This apprenticeship has given me a clear career path,” he says. “It’s an investment in my future with real opportunities for growth.”
Jay’s determination has always shone through, including his commitment to take various forms of public transport to get to work and achieve his ambition and follow his chosen career.
With long-term goals of self-employment, Jay values the hands-on experience. “I’m building a skill set that will allow me to work for myself one day.”
A Fresh Start: Tawona’s Career Transformation
After years as a hod carrier, Tawona took the next step, joining an apprenticeship to qualify as a bricklayer. “The money’s good, but I also wanted to advance my career,” he says.
Fourteen months later, he has qualified through the accelerated training programme, proving that the right training and effort can lead to success. “This apprenticeship has set me up for a rewarding future.”
Cllr Gerri Bird, Executive Councillor for Housing at Cambridge City Council and CIP Board Member commented, “Apprenticeships provide essential skills for life, equipping individuals with the knowledge and experience to build long-term, successful careers. Seeing apprentices like Ed, Dan, Jay, and Tawona thrive highlights how hands-on training can be truly life-changing. At CIP, we are committed to developing future talent and ensuring they have the skills to shape both their own futures and the communities we build.”
These inspiring stories from Ed, Dan, Jay, and Tawona highlight the incredible impact apprenticeships can have on individuals seeking new career paths. These apprentices are not only learning essential trade skills but also laying the groundwork for successful and fulfilling careers in construction.