From Apprentice to Senior Engineer, we catch up with Jared Atkins on the completion of Winvic’s first Life Sciences project – a scheme which gave Jared his first opportunity to be the site Senior Engineer since qualifying, and his journey of supportive learning at Winvic.
Starting as a Trainee back in 2018, to a now Chartered Senior Engineer, Jared progressed with purpose through college and then university to follow his dream of becoming an Engineer. With a clear ambition to continue that journey of development, he aspires to be a Project Manager one day, and Winvic is right behind him.
Today, Jared is integral to the delivery of multiple nationwide projects, and as well as being dedicated to his site roles and responsibilities, he excels in mentoring and supporting the next generation of young people on their career paths.
Earlier this summer, Winvic announced the completion of its first Life Sciences scheme, Bourn Quarter. Located near Cambourne, west of Cambridge, this Net Zero facility is a best-in-class Research and Development hub, offering production, storage, warehouse and office space for a broad spectrum of businesses.
Winvic delivered Phase 2 of the scheme, which involved the construction of nine units across six buildings, totalling 154,634 sq ft. This marked a significant milestone for Winvic as it added Life Sciences to its growing project portfolio.
As Senior Engineer on the project, Jared was intrinsic to its successful delivery. We hear from him about his ongoing career progression and his experience on bringing Bourn Quarter to life.
What have been some of the highlights during your journey with Winvic?
“Completing my studies has been a major achievement. Firstly, a distinction in my HND at college and then a Degree in Civil Engineering at university, plus I passed the IEng assessment the first time, which I was so pleased with. Winvic enabled me to find a career I’m passionate about and have supported me through my studies to where I am now. I still can’t quite believe that I’m a Senior Engineer for such an innovative company.
“What makes my journey with Winvic particularly special is the trust they have put in me and the tools they have given me to thrive. They made it possible for me to learn and achieve and have allowed me to progress through the ranks, always with support. I’ve also had the opportunity to work with incredible site teams who I’ve learnt so much from.”
Bourn Quarter is the first Life Sciences project for Winvic, how did you find the build process?
“This was a pivotal moment for both me personally and Winvic as it was my first project as Senior Engineer and the company’s first project in the sub-sector. The scheme itself was naturally very different to our usual Industrial and Logistics (I&L) projects, certainly more complex, and this scheme sat within a tight site with a watercourse running through the middle, so early works involved diverting that watercourse. It was a challenge as we had to wait for the planning permission to do this, which could have sent our timings out, but we navigated the challenge with extensive planning, managing the logistics and delivery routes into the site and focussing on packages we could progress with. The job went really well.”
Bourn Quarter, Cambridge
What did you learn on the project?
“They say every day is a school day and I learnt a lot during the build programme of Bourn Quarter which I can take with me to the next project, hopefully when we secure further Life Sciences contracts. Being my first scheme as a Senior Engineer, I now have a lot more appreciation for the importance of good management and communication on site between the supply chain partners. It was a privilege to be amongst great skills and minds of all ages and abilities, all working together to make the best decisions for the project. I enjoyed managing and mentoring people and favour the ‘open book management’ approach. For Winvic, we delivered the high quality we are known for and have made an impressive mark in the Life Sciences sector.”
What’s next for you on your Winvic journey?
“I’m straight on to the next project which is brilliant as this is a large-scale industrial and logistics build for a well-known brand, which is located in Northampton, not far from the Winvic head office.
“I continue to learn and build my experience and expertise as I work towards my goal of becoming a Project Manager one day. I’m lucky to be learning from the best and see innovation and collaboration every day.
“I take pride in supporting Winvic’s charity fundraising and community-led events, particularly when they are in partnership with our subcontractors. I’m grateful that Winvic enables employees to get involved in these initiatives, as well as offering an employee volunteering policy, and I look forward to doing more of that in the future.
“Another passion of mine is supporting young people who are learning and studying on the job like I once was. I use my experiences as an apprentice and trainee to help others navigate their own journey. In fact, five new apprenticeships were created on Bourn Quarter and a further eight existing apprentices were supported throughout the project, helping them continue their NVQs.
“Winvic leads the way in providing opportunities to students wanting a career in construction and I follow their lead, giving talks at schools and mentoring where I feel I can add value.
“There’s so much opportunity here, and I’m excited for the next chapter.”
For more information on Winvic, the company’s latest project news and job vacancies, please visit www.winvic.co.uk. Join Winvic on social media – visit Instagram @WinvicConstruction and @WinvicLtd on LinkedIn.
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