Apprentice success stories – Faye Wells

We’re proud to spotlight the successful apprenticeship journey of Faye Wells, a Project Management Coordinator with Mitie. Faye has recently achieved a Pass in her Associate Project Manager: Level 4 course with Penshaw View.

After facing some truly testing challenges head-on and completing her qualification with unshakeable determination, she was keen to tell us all about her experience and how this incredible achievement has unlocked new avenues for growth in her career.

Q) What lead you to starting your chosen apprenticeship?

I have worked within the environment of project management for nearly 10 years and really enjoy it. My manager put me forward for the Associate Project Manager apprenticeship, as he felt it would be a good progression for me and it was something I wanted to do.

Q) What does a typical day look like for you?

Emails, meeting with my Programme Manager, then pulling a data report to see where the projects are for the team. I make sure all the project managers’ projects are up to date, reporting-wise, while looking after my own projects that I have started work on.

Q) How would you describe the apprenticeship journey to anyone thinking of starting?

I would really recommend it. I have learnt so much and it has really opened my eyes to the world of project management and that it isn’t just for the field I work in. The support I received from my PV tutor has been amazing and I really feel that I can progress in my chosen field.

Q) What advice would you give to someone starting an apprenticeship?

Go for it! The confidence it gives you and the support you receive is invaluable. While two years can seem like a long time at the beginning, it has flown by and I now have the qualification and confidence to progress with a good, recognised qualification.

Q) Was there a highlight to your apprenticeship?

My PV tutor was amazing! There were times when I really felt like giving up due to pressures at work, but her support and encouragement gave me the push I needed to keep going and I’m so glad I did. She always took the time to explain things to me if I didn’t quite understand and took the mystery out of some of the industry jargon.

Q) Did you find anything difficult?

I sometimes found balancing my apprenticeship with my job challenging, as our Programme Manager resigned from the business when I had just finished my first year. This meant I had to step in to carry out his duties. It tested my resilience and my organisational skills, but with my tutor’s support, I was able to see the bigger picture and carry on.

Q) What made you want to progress straight away?

The confidence it has given me with having more knowledge of the project management process.

Q) Do you feel the apprenticeship has helped your future aspirations and do you have any plans for your career or further development?

Definitely. I’m looking to progress my career immediately and would eventually like to get a leadership qualification to become a Programme Manager.

Faye’s journey is an inspirational one, as she has overcome significant obstacles and managed to successfully balance her education alongside her professional obligations with admirable finesse. We’re truly delighted to see her continue to flourish in her role.

If you think you’re ready to take the next step in your career, whatever the sector, we deliver a diverse selection of apprenticeships that could help you do just that. Get in touch with our friendly team today to take the first step in your own journey.