Alumni Spotlight - Jake Wileman

From Construction Apprentice to Senior Quantity Surveyor

In 2014, Jake started his career journey as a Construction Apprentice. What began as an opportunity to gain practical experience and develop his skills has grown into a successful career in construction, with Jake now having progressed into his current role of Senior Quantity Surveyor.

Over the years, he has continued to learn, take on new challenges and develop professionally, gaining valuable experience, contributing to award-winning projects and supporting the next generation of apprentices.

His journey is a great example of how apprenticeships can create long-lasting careers, providing the foundation, experience and opportunities needed to progress within the industry.

Starting Out

After completing his A-Levels, Jake was unsure what direction he wanted his career to take. Rather than continuing with full-time education, he chose an apprenticeship route that allowed him to gain hands-on experience while continuing to learn and develop.

Reflecting on his decision to start an apprenticeship, Jake said:

"My motivation was more of desire to start work instead of carrying on with full time education."

"Following completion of my A-Levels I had no clear plan of what I really wanted to do, so the opportunity to do an apprenticeship seemed like the correct path for me at that point in my life."

"The idea of learning a trade whilst getting paid to do so and having a clear path set out with the opportunities outlined to me of what could be achieved motivated me in abundance."

Starting as an apprentice gave Jake the opportunity to learn from experienced colleagues, understand the construction industry and begin building the skills that would support his future career.

Developing Skills for the Future

Throughout his apprenticeship, Jake gained experience across several teams and roles, giving him a wider understanding of how different parts of the business work together towards a common goal.

"One of the key skills I developed during my apprenticeship was effective communication, alongside a strong understanding of how the professional world operates."

"As a result, I gained not only a well-rounded understanding of the business but also the interpersonal skills needed to build strong working relationships and contribute successfully within a team environment."

Building a Career

For Jake, his apprenticeship was the foundation for a career that has continued to grow.

"My apprenticeship provided an invaluable foundation for my career, giving me a practical introduction to both the construction industry and professional working life."

"It enabled me to develop an understanding of the sector, while also exposing me to a wide range of people, personalities, experiences, and backgrounds that you encounter throughout your career."

Since completing his apprenticeship, Jake has continued to progress within the industry, taking on greater responsibility and developing his expertise to reach his current position as Senior Quantity Surveyor.

Achievements Along the Way

Throughout his career, Jake has been recognised for his contribution to successful projects and has been involved in achievements that have helped shape his professional development.

One of his proudest milestones was being part of the team that won the Infrastructure Achievement of the Year Award at the National Rail Awards in London for a project delivered in Durham.

"The scheme was not only the largest project our regional business had ever undertaken, but it was also completed safely and successfully, making the recognition particularly rewarding for everyone involved."

"Being acknowledged collectively for the team's hard work and dedication was a proud achievement."

"Furthermore, the experience I gained through my involvement in such a high-profile and complex project proved invaluable and has played a significant role in my professional development."

Recognised Progression and Giving Back

Jake’s progression throughout his career has been recognised through awards, promotions and involvement in successful projects.

Early in his career, he was nominated for Apprentice of the Year and Trainee of the Year, receiving commendations for both. His continued development has seen him progress into a leadership role where he now supports and mentors apprentices starting their own careers.

"I have played a key role in several award-winning projects across the organisations I have worked for, contributing to their successful delivery and recognition within the industry."

"My professional development has also been reflected through a series of promotions, culminating in my current leadership role."

"Today, I am proud to support, mentor and guide apprentices, helping them develop their skills and progress their careers in the same way that others supported me at the beginning of mine."

A Journey Built on Commitment

Alongside his career progression, Jake has continued to invest in his own development, completing his Degree in Quantity Surveying while working full-time and raising a young family.

This achievement is one of the moments he is most proud of, demonstrating the commitment and determination that have supported his career journey.

"Balancing these commitments was challenging and required significant dedication, but the sense of achievement and the opportunities it created made the hard work worthwhile."

Advice for Future Apprentices

Having experienced first-hand the opportunities an apprenticeship can create, Jake is passionate about encouraging others to consider this route into the industry.

His advice is to make the most of the support available, ask questions and approach every opportunity with a willingness to learn.

"I cannot recommend an apprenticeship with LSP highly enough. The opportunity I was given played a pivotal role in shaping my career, and I would not be in the position I am today without it."

"My advice to any apprentice would be to never be afraid to ask questions and to make the most of the support available around you. The people you work with have a wealth of knowledge and experience, and there is always something to learn from them. At the same time, it is important to have confidence in yourself and demonstrate a genuine willingness to learn and develop."

"As an apprentice, no one expects you to know everything from day one. What people value most is your attitude, commitment and eagerness to improve."

"If you consistently show enthusiasm, take on feedback positively and put in the effort to develop your skills, you will earn far more respect than by simply trying to have all the answers. Those qualities will help build strong relationships, create opportunities and set the foundations for a successful career."

Creating Careers That Last

What started as an opportunity to gain experience and explore a career path has developed into a rewarding career built on learning, progression and achievement.

Jake’s story shows that apprenticeships are not just about where you start — they are about the opportunities, experiences and careers they can create!