National Apprenticeship Week is the perfect time to celebrate the rising talent within Hercules. Meet Zach, a driven apprentice whose journey in quantity surveying is a testament to the power of learning while working. With a passion for numbers but a desire to escape the monotony of desk work, he found his ideal career path through an apprenticeship at Hercules.
With A-Levels in Mathematics, Economics, and Accountancy, Zach was determined to find a career that aligned with his skills but offered more than just number-crunching. A week of work experience in accountancy confirmed it wasn’t the right fit, and that’s when quantity surveying caught his attention. While studying at Cirencester College, he met Chris Winfield, who introduced him to the opportunities at Hercules. After an informal chat about his aspirations, Zach joined the company and is now two years into his apprenticeship, working towards an HNC and hoping to enrol in a Degree-Apprenticeship. The structured progression and support from his colleagues have made Hercules feel like the perfect place to build his career.
Zach finds excitement in the practical side of his role, from visiting sites and engaging with supervisors to managing costs and negotiating with clients. The responsibility of making monthly payment applications, ensuring accurate financial tracking, and proving credibility through forecasting has been both challenging and rewarding. The opportunity to step onto construction sites, assess project developments, and have real input in decision-making keeps the role dynamic and fulfilling.
One of the most rewarding aspects of his apprenticeship has been growing from an observer to an active leader within his projects. While shadowing was an essential part of the learning curve, being trusted to steer meetings and take ownership of responsibilities has boosted his confidence. Even when things don’t go as planned, the learning experience is invaluable. Mistakes are inevitable, but with the support and mentorship at Hercules, they become stepping stones for growth rather than setbacks.
The balance between academic learning and practical application has been a highlight of Zach’s apprenticeship. Studying surveying, levelling, and material testing has given him a deeper understanding of the industry, with upcoming CAD and creative design modules adding to his technical skill set. The ability to apply theoretical knowledge directly to his work ensures he’s not just learning concepts but truly understanding their real-world implications.
Challenges have been part of the journey, too. Managing two projects simultaneously and dealing with unexpected hurdles tested Zach’s resilience. However, facing such situations early in his career has only strengthened his ability to adapt and problem-solve effectively. The key takeaway has been embracing each experience as either a win or a valuable lesson, a mindset that has helped him maintain a positive outlook in the workplace.
Outside of work, Zach keeps busy with sports, MMA training, and a passion for live music and festivals. His social and active lifestyle reflects the well-rounded approach he takes to both his career and personal life.
Looking ahead, he aims to enrol in a Level 6 Degree-Apprenticeship in Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management at UWE, with aspirations of gaining RICS chartership. With Hercules providing a solid foundation, he sees his future firmly within the company. The trust and responsibility given to him have fostered self-belief, and he is excited to continue growing within the business. Travel is also on his list of future aspirations, showcasing his drive for both professional and personal exploration.
Zach’s story is a shining example of the value of apprenticeships. The combination of hands-on experience and academic learning has set him up for success, proving that the right opportunity, coupled with determination and the right support system, can create a thriving career.
Hercules is committed to developing talent and providing apprentices with the tools they need to build a strong future in the industry.
Hercules Site Services plc (LON:HERC) is a collaborative, innovative company delivering services of the highest standards within the Civil Engineering sector of the construction industry. Hercules Construction Academy provides a comprehensive range of courses designed to equip individuals with the essential skills and knowledge required for a long and successful career in the construction industry.
