Meet our Apprentice

Name: Ryan Wilkie

Employer: Carveti Consulting Limited (CCL Solutions)

"The studies undertaken at the University of Cumbria provide real, tangible benefits to my day-to-day work and are aligned with the support and training received in my workplace. I often find myself drawing links between case studies in lectures and that of situations that I have faced within the workplace."

Project Manager Degree Apprenticeship

Tell us about your role:

I am Assistant Project Manager working for Carveti Consulting Limited (CCL Solutions). CCL Solutions are a professional management consultancy who deliver property and construction solutions across the UK.

While CCL Solutions provide consultancy work across a variety of sectors, the main focus of my work is on healthcare projects, being involved from concept through to design, construction and handover such projects as the Clatterbridge Cancer Centre in Liverpool and currently, the Northern Cancer Centre in Carlisle.

How long have you been studying at the University of Cumbria?

I am a third-year student: I started studying with the University of Cumbria in September of 2019, and expect to complete in July 2022. I was able to begin my studies in year 2 of the Apprenticeship Degree Programme due to holding a level 4 HNC in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering.

Do you feel studying here has benefited you?

When I began working for Carveti Consulting in 2018, I was relatively new to project management with a background in the construction and manufacturing industry.

I have found that the knowledge, skills and behaviours that I have gained through my studies with the University of Cumbria have provided me with the confidence and ability to work in a professional environment, focusing on all aspects of project management.

Has studying changed the way you work/ approach your own role? 

The studies undertaken at the University of Cumbria provide real, tangible benefits to my day-to-day work and is aligned with the support and training received in my workplace.

I often find myself drawing links between case studies in lectures and that of situations that I have faced within the workplace. Similarly, there are times during my day-to-day work when I can relate the work that I am undertaking back to my studies with the two providing a firm understanding from which I can further develop my abilities.

What benefit has higher education brought to your organisation?  Line manager’s comments:

The organisation has benefited greatly from Ryan’s studies with his improved understanding of project management having resulted in greater confidence and an ability to work with much greater autonomy in the office, out on site and when liaising with clients.

Would you recommend studying with the University of Cumbria to other students / organisations?

I would recommend studying with the University of Cumbria to other students and organisations. While it has been hard work, the delivery has been engaging and well delivered.