NAW Case Study - Gabrielle McGovern
Gabrielle McGovern is currently completing a Project Management apprenticeship within the telecoms sector, supporting projects during the design phase of cell tower developments. Her role involves working closely with stakeholders, reviewing technical drawings, and supporting the delivery of projects from an early stage.
“My day-to-day duties include supporting a project during the design phase of a cell tower. This can include liaising with stakeholders and reviewing drawings.”
Career Change Through Apprenticeship
Before starting her apprenticeship, Gabrielle worked for a different company in a completely unrelated role. With no prior experience or knowledge of project management, the apprenticeship provided a structured and supportive route into a new career.
“My apprenticeship has impacted my career as prior to this role I was in a completely different company, doing a completely different job. This meant I was new to the Project Management role and had no knowledge whatsoever.”
The apprenticeship allowed Gabrielle to develop core project management skills while gaining real-world experience within a leading telecoms organisation.
Learning While Working
A key benefit of Gabrielle’s apprenticeship has been the ability to apply learning directly to her role, reinforcing knowledge and building confidence.
“The apprenticeship has meant I have been able to learn about my role and apply the knowledge I’ve learnt when completing my job.”
She also highlights how the programme has helped expand her knowledge beyond anything she had previously studied.
“What I like about the apprenticeship is that the subject isn’t something I’ve learnt before, but I find it very interesting and it has broadened my knowledge.”
Benefits of an Apprenticeship
Gabrielle recognises the practical and financial advantages of apprenticeships, particularly the balance between employment and education.
“The benefits of an apprenticeship are that you can learn and work at the same time, you have time to complete your learning to gain a qualification, and you’re getting paid to learn and work.”
Advice for Future Apprentices
When asked what advice she would give to others considering an apprenticeship, Gabrielle encourages people to take the opportunity and trust the process.
“If you are considering an apprenticeship, I would advise you to do it! Take your time and not get too focused on what you need to do at the end, as you have time to complete everything.”
The Employer Perspective
Gabrielle also believes apprenticeships are highly valuable for employers, helping them develop skilled professionals while supporting career progression.
“I think employers should offer apprenticeships as it’s a great way for people to get qualifications and learn a new role at the same time. It gives you the opportunity to progress at a faster pace than if you’d started from the bottom and worked your way up.”
Conclusion
Gabrielle’s journey demonstrates how apprenticeships can support career change, skills development, and progression within key industries such as telecoms. By combining structured learning with hands-on experience, apprenticeships continue to play a vital role in developing the workforce of the future.