Alumni Spotlight: Mateusz Fijalkowski
Alumni Spotlight: Mateusz Fijalkowski
For Mateusz Fijalkowski, an apprenticeship was more than just a route into a new role - it was the chance to combine his love of science with a career that makes a real impact.
“I was motivated to start my apprenticeship because I wanted to build a career where I could keep learning while contributing to something meaningful, whilst continuing to develop my passion for science which had started as early as high school,” Mateusz explained. “The opportunity to work in the nuclear industry really appealed to me because it’s challenging, innovative, and plays such an important role in the UK’s future. An apprenticeship felt like the right mix between gaining hands-on experience and developing my skills - for me it felt like the perfect place to grow.”
Skills That Matter
Through his apprenticeship, Mateusz developed both technical knowledge and personal confidence.
“Throughout my apprenticeship I’ve built up a solid mix of technical knowledge and practical skills. I’ve learned how the nuclear industry works day-to-day, from safety standards and processes to project controls and how the teams come together to deliver work. On top of that, I’ve really grown in confidence, collaborating with people from different technical backgrounds, allowing me to learn every day and become a well-rounded Project Controller.”
Finding His Path
The apprenticeship also gave Mateusz the clarity he needed to shape his career.
“My apprenticeship really helped me figure out the kind of career I want. I always knew it would be something to do with science, but never what role that would be in. At first, I wasn’t completely sure where I’d fit within the nuclear industry, but working on real projects gave me the chance to try different things and see what I enjoyed most.”
“It’s helped me find my strengths in project controls and given me a clear idea of how I can grow in this field. I can now see a path where I keep building my skills, take on bigger responsibilities and eventually work towards leading projects of my own. It’s shown me that there are so many opportunities in the nuclear industry, and it’s motivated me to keep progressing and aiming higher.”
Achievements and Recognition
One of Mateusz’s proudest achievements is earning a distinction in his apprenticeship.
“One of my proudest achievements has been completing my apprenticeship with a distinction. I worked really hard to balance studying with the day-to-day demands of the job. Achieving that grade gave me real confidence in my abilities and showed me what I’m capable of when I apply myself fully.”
Since then, Mateusz has taken on greater responsibility at work.
“I’ve moved from supporting tasks to actually taking ownership of parts of projects, looking after whole portfolios and being trusted with complex projects, which has taught me a lot about responsibility and accountability. I’ve also grown much more comfortable leading meetings, sharing my own ideas and contributing to technical discussions. It’s been really rewarding to see those ideas taken seriously.”
Recognition has followed, too. “I’ve been trusted with more responsibility in complex projects much earlier than I expected. Being part of the first Project Controls apprentice programme at my workplace has also allowed me to support the next wave of Project Controllers, passing on just how much you can gain from it - not just technical knowledge, but confidence, teamwork and a clearer sense of where you want to take your career.”
A Defining Moment
For Mateusz, one particular moment stands out.
“The moment I’m most proud of has to be completing my apprenticeship with a 97% distinction. For me, it wasn’t just about the grade - it was about what it represented. There were times when it was really challenging to balance studying, assessments and deadlines with the day-to-day project work. When I found out I’d achieved a distinction, it felt like all of that hard work had finally paid off. It gave me a huge sense of pride and proved to me that I was capable of much more than I thought at the start.”
Mateusz’s Advice
For anyone considering an apprenticeship with LSP, Mateusz has some clear advice:
“My advice would be to go for it. An apprenticeship is a brilliant opportunity to learn while you work, but it does take commitment. You’ll be balancing real responsibilities in the workplace with studying and assessments. The best thing you can do is stay organised, ask questions and make the most of the amazing support around you.
The wide variety of modules allowed me to develop all of my skills, build a solid foundation and give me a massive head start in my career. If you’re willing to put the work in, an apprenticeship with LSP can set you up with skills, experience and opportunities you simply wouldn’t get through study alone.”
Mateusz’s journey is a powerful example of how apprenticeships can do more than launch a career - they can help shape a future filled with purpose, growth, and opportunity. From achieving a distinction to stepping into leadership responsibilities, his story shows the lasting impact that learning while working can have.