Interview with our apprentice Rehan Iqbal

Rehan started his apprenticeship at DDC over a year ago. He likes going out and enjoys being with friends, family, socializing and relaxing. He likes fashion and cars. His dream car is  BMW M140i. He will be starting Uni in September studying Civil and Transportation Engineering at University of Wolverhampton.

How do you get the best out of being an apprentice?

Never be hesitant. Even if you must ask 1000 times just ask. If you don’t know how to do something don’t just agree with what the other person is telling you. Just ask the question, and don’t think they will think down on you. At the end of the day, you will have to know how to do the job. 

Tell us about your first days

 It was nerve racking first time coming into a job and being surrounded by people I don’t know. I will be honest, knowing someone in the team put a bit of ease on my shoulder.

In the first days I felt like I had to prove myself, I had to prove that I am worthy to stay in the company and investing into.

What I like the most is that everyone was very supportive even people who were in different departments. Everyone was there for me when I was asking for help and if I did something wrong nobody told me off, they just showed me the right direction.

What knowledge, skills and behaviours have you developed so far on your apprenticeship?

I’ve learned anything to do with drainage. When I walked in, I didn’t even know the smallest thing, like what a gully is. Now I know how the system works, how is the water flow and how they use curbs to control the water.

In terms of soft skills my communication and confidence have definitely improved. Back when I started, I was very hesitant to message especially the people working from home. I was worrying for doing my job wrong. Now I am more confident, I enjoy talking to everyone because I know that everyone has got my back, and everyone is supportive.

What was the highlight of this month?

Going to one of our clients’ sites on my own and measuring and processing the job.

What did you find the most challenging?

Back when I started was the most challenging period. Learning everything and taking in all the information. There was so much to learn especially how to follow the steps and procedures and to ensure nothing is being missed so that I can deliver a high-quality job.

What five words describe your team?

 Supportive, caring, fun, enjoyable to be around, dedicated

Why did you choose to study an apprenticeship /this?

 I felt this is the way to go. You get the work experience from a very young age. You get both qualification and education. I didn’t want to go straight into uni. I am more like hands on, I felt like doing an apprenticeship was better for me. This way I understand engineering from a young age and to also gives me the opportunity to move sectors if I want to.

Do you spend all day making tea? How does a day look for you?

No, nobody’s asked me to make tea or coffee. Moreover, they always ask me if I want something to drink which is very nice.

I come to the office, and I start processing. There is no pressure so I can relax and take breaks whenever I need them. Here at DDC as long as you do your job to a high-quality standard the company allows you flexible hours. I am really enjoying the environment.

Describe your relationship with your manager.

 My relationship with my manager is great. He is very supportive, always calm, and always explaining to me how I should things the right way. He supported me in things that I couldn’t do on my own and he always helped me to complete everything for the delivery day.

Has your apprenticeship been worth it?

 Yes, 100%. I have enjoyed it. It has never been a day that I thought that I want to leave, I have never uncomfortable. Everyone is talkative, and polite and asking how I am.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]