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Last week, more than 500 apprentices and graduates came together in Manchester for our biggest Early Careers Festival yet. It was a chance to step away from their day-to-day roles, meet colleagues from across the business and see more of the work we deliver across the UK. 

With people joining from different regions, disciplines and projects, the event gave attendees the opportunity to swap ideas, learn from one another and start building relationships. For many, it was the first they had seen the scale of our business beyond their immediate team – and how different specialisms work together to deliver complex infrastructure and construction projects. 

Opening the event, our Group Chief Executive, Philip Hoare, encouraged attendees to: 

“Show up. Be curious. Get stuff done.” 

The message set the tone for the day. People asked questions, challenged themselves and explored new ideas. 

Across the day, apprentices and graduates heard from leaders and experts from across the business. Sessions covered everything from Zero Harm to emerging technologies, showing how different teams help deliver the projects and services our customers and communities rely on every day. 

The conversations showed just how varied their ambitions are. Some want to become future leaders, others are excited by artificial intelligence and new technology. Many are excited by the chance to work on major projects and see the difference their work makes in the real world. 

The event may last one day, but the connections can last much longer. By meeting colleagues early in their careers, apprentices and graduates can build a network for sharing ideas, solving problems and supporting one another across the business.