Being Pick Everard
National Apprenticeship Week 2025 - Jack Lilley
14 Feb 2025
During National Apprenticeship Week, Jack Lilley, Apprentice Information Manager, shares his journey as an apprentice at Pick Everard. He discusses how a supportive and professional environment has helped him develop essential skills for his future career.
What drew you to Pick Everard for your apprenticeship?
As one of my relatives, whose career I admire, currently works for Pick Everard and has done for a number of years. I felt it was a stable and professional environment that matches my ambition. Specifically, in terms of serving an apprenticeship I was confident that I would be integrated into the team and valued despite being at the very start of my career.
What does a typical day in your apprenticeship look like?
At Pick Everard, more specifically the BIM Services team, my typical day varies from clash detection to running meetings on COBie Compliance with the support of my colleagues. This is important for an apprentice, as my type of work changes frequently to ensure I cover many different types of tasks to enhance my skill set.
Can you share a success or achievement during your time as an apprentice?
During my apprenticeship at Pick Everard, I have encountered a variety of challenges that have ultimately resulted in numerous successes. Notably, I have produced a significant number of clash cycles and consistently conducted clash coordination meetings with external clients. In recognition of my contributions, I was honoured with a Spot Reward in December, an initiative through which Pick Everard acknowledges the hard work and dedication of individual employees.
Have you had a mentor during your apprenticeship? If so, how have they helped you?
Within my team, I am able to approach any colleague for assistance, as everyone at Pick Everard possesses a broad range of expertise. Depending on the nature of my assignment, I can consult with specific individuals to gain a deeper understanding of the task at hand. Additionally, should I require further support, such as an additional study day to help manage my workload (for instance, following the Christmas break), this is always granted.
How do you see your apprenticeship shaping your future career?
Being an apprentice in a professional environment not only provides the foundational skills required to become a professional but also offers the opportunity to experience a wide range of tasks, enabling you to discover what suits you best. At Pick Everard, there is strong encouragement to help individuals realise their full potential. The range of knowledge and experience gained, and subsequently applied, in the professional setting can be immensely rewarding. Most importantly, being an apprentice has allowed me to integrate into the professional environment, contribute to a team, lead both internal and external meetings with support, and unlock new opportunities and potential that might not have been available to me otherwise.