Alumni Spotlight: Aura Carp

For Aura Carp, an apprenticeship was the perfect opportunity to grow as a leader and build the skills she needed to support and develop her team.

“When I started my apprenticeship, I was new in a team leader role and wanted to learn more about how to be a great leader. I was eager to better myself in order to support my team and develop them into a high-performing team.”

Building Key Skills

Aura’s apprenticeship gave her valuable tools to improve her leadership abilities and connect with others.

“I learned a lot about emotional intelligence and how to be better at it. Being from a different background and culture, it was a bit difficult for me to connect with people on a personal level. It helped me understand my own emotions, triggers, and how to react and act in a social environment, which in the end helped me become a better manager and leader.”

Shaping Her Career Path

Through her apprenticeship, Aura gained both confidence and direction for her career.

“It helped me gain confidence in myself and my skills. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and guided me on my next career path. I have applied for a different role within the company and I was successful in securing the role and becoming a well-rounded leader.”

Achievements and Milestones

Since completing her apprenticeship, Aura has taken on greater responsibilities and continues to progress in her career.

“I have changed roles, have more responsibilities, and a bigger impact in the department. I am on track to progress further within the next 12–24 months.”

Recognition and Feedback

Aura’s dedication has been recognised through promotions, projects, and leadership opportunities.

“I have been recognised for delivering great projects throughout the years and for ensuring I have a commercial mindset and do the right thing for my team members and the business overall goals. I led a project regarding downsizing a department, which was out of scope for my knowledge, however I pushed through and ensured a successful outcome for everyone involved.”

A Moment of Pride

One particular achievement stands out for Aura:

“I am proud of my success since returning from maternity leave in September 2024. Even though I had a 10-month break, it didn’t feel like my career was put on hold. I came back with a fresh perspective, got involved in a lot of projects and system changes, and led the way in how to manage a high-performing team. I was awarded with the highest grade in my annual and quarterly performance review and added on the list of future stars and future leaders.”

Gratitude and Guidance

Aura reflects with gratitude on the support she received during her apprenticeship:

“I am really grateful for all the things I learned and how great my Tutor was during my apprenticeship.”

And her advice for future apprentices is simple but powerful:

“Just go for it - you’ll learn so many things. You’ll become a better person and a better leader for sure.”

Aura’s journey shows how apprenticeships can provide more than just technical knowledge - they can build confidence, develop leadership, and open the door to exciting new career opportunities.