Life as an Apprentice – Blog #1

D2 Rail recently took on it’s first apprentice within the Utilities Team. We will be posting regular updates about Tom’s progress and experiences. Over to Tom…

My name is Thomas Maksymowicz and I have recently started work at D2 Rail as an apprentice in the Utilities Management department. I chose to apply for this job as it was something that interested me and want to learn more about.

My first day consisted of an induction in the office and meeting the rest of the team (Graeme Clarke and Steve Cooper) and System Administration Manager, Tricia Rogers. I have done tasks to help develop my knowledge whilst working from home during the COVID 19 pandemic.

My first task set for me was to create a PowerPoint presentation (An Introduction to Utilities). This was useful as it encouraged me to search for relevant information about some of the utility companies on the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) and why they are important to the project. I have also produced and sent C3 Application letters to utility companies asking where their assets are in specific areas.

Over the past three weeks I have attended various training sessions including a ‘Rough Guide to Track’ and ‘Linesearch Utilities’ via Microsoft Teams. These sessions introduced me to the basics of Rail and Utilities and has helped me to learn more about it. These sessions have been very beneficial to me as I am still able to learn, listen and speak to people online whilst working from home and gain a better understanding about rail and the industry.

I will be studying Civil Engineering Technician Level three programme at Salford college on day release for the next three years (30 months) where I will learn about various aspects of civil engineering and construction.

I look forward to the future and where this opportunity will take me.