Apprenticeship Spotlight: Daniel Evans’ Time at KeyIS

Q: What inspired you to pursue an apprenticeship at KeyIS?

Daniel: I was the first graduate KeyIS ever took on, which meant I could shape the role to fit my ambitions. With no set scheme in place, I was able to maximise my learning opportunities and gain exposure to a variety of aspects within the job.

Q: What’s been the most exciting part of your apprenticeship so far?

Daniel: The fact that my role isn’t a typical graduate scheme but rather a graduate job has been exciting. It’s learning on the job, with live projects from day one. Having the responsibility of being the lead designer/engineer and participating in regular site visits adds a welcome change of pace from office work.

Q: How do you balance the practical, hands-on experience with your studies?

Daniel: My focus is entirely on gaining hands-on experience. I try to visit sites as often as possible to better understand the designs I’m working on and see them being installed.

Q: What have been some of the most valuable skills or lessons you’ve learned since joining the company?

Daniel: Engaging with clients has been invaluable—whether it’s understanding the complexities of a project or explaining why a design works best for their needs. This has greatly improved my confidence.

Q: Where do you see yourself in five years?

Daniel: I see myself designing and managing projects with minimal input, procuring equipment independently, and specialising in a niche area of building services I’m passionate about. Ultimately, my goal is to become a chartered engineer.

Q: What has surprised you most about working in the engineering, design, and maintenance industry?

Daniel: I’ve been amazed at how much there is to learn. Even after a year, I’ve only scratched the surface. Building services encompass so many different disciplines, and mastering them all takes time and dedication.

Q: How has working at KeyIS supported your personal and professional growth?

Daniel: In my interview, I expressed my long-term goal of becoming a chartered engineer. KeyIS has fully supported this by exposing me to a variety of design disciplines, helping me build the competencies needed to achieve that goal.

Q: Can you describe a project or task you’re particularly proud of?

Daniel: I take pride in all my work because so much of it involves designing something for the first time. A standout project, however, was a design for BAE. Being trusted to survey the current installation, understand client requirements, and create a design they approved without major changes was a huge confidence boost.

Q: How do you feel the culture at KeyIS supports apprentices and their development?

Daniel: Everyone is always willing to help when I’m stuck. It’s clear that KeyIS hires the right people because I never feel like I’m bothering anyone when I ask for assistance.

Q: What has been your experience working within the Design team at KeyIS?

Daniel: Being part of a small pre-construction team means I never feel overlooked. Everyone supports each other, especially when deadlines are tight. Over time, I’ve been entrusted with larger-scale projects and more responsibility for leading designs.

Q: What kinds of projects have you been involved in during your apprenticeship?

Daniel: I’ve mainly worked on HVAC, water, and drainage services for office buildings. Recently, I’ve transitioned to similar work on a larger and more critical industrial scale.

Q: How do you collaborate with other teams within the business?

Daniel: Collaboration is essential. I regularly coordinate with other teams to ensure the design aligns with project requirements and timelines.

Q: Project management requires a lot of coordination and attention to detail—what have you found to be the key skills for success in this area?

Daniel: Communication and leadership are crucial. Clearly conveying what needs to be done is vital for keeping everything on track.

Q: How have the mentors and colleagues at KeyIS supported your development in managing projects?

Daniel: They’ve identified areas for me to improve and recommended relevant courses and events. This guidance has been invaluable for learning and networking.

Q: What do you enjoy most about working in the Projects section?

Daniel: No two projects are the same, which keeps the work interesting and prevents it from feeling monotonous.

Q: What’s one thing about working at KeyIS that you think sets it apart from other companies?

Daniel: The culture here is incredibly supportive. Everyone is willing to help, and there’s no sense of competition or conflict.

Q: How do you feel your apprenticeship at KeyIS is setting you up for long-term success in the industry?

Daniel: Being exposed to so many different aspects of the business has opened up numerous pathways for my future career.

Q: Finally, how has your confidence and skillset grown since starting at KeyIS, and what are you most excited about moving forward?

Daniel: My confidence has grown with every new responsibility I’ve been given—it’s proof that the company trusts my abilities. My technical skills have come a long way since I started, and I’m most excited to take on more significant projects and have a greater role in their success.

Final Thoughts
Daniel Evans’ journey at KeyIS showcases how our apprenticeship programmes allow individuals to develop both personally and professionally. With a supportive team, hands-on experience, and opportunities for growth, KeyIS apprentices like Daniel are set up for long-term success in the engineering and design industry.

Interested in shaping your own future? Learn more about our apprenticeship programs at KeyIS here.