A DETERMINED learner from Wrexham is proving that dedication, perseverance and the right support can turn ambition into a thriving career.
Olivia Kassab, a former pupil of Rhosnesni High School, has spent the last seven years progressing through multiple levels of study at Coleg Cambria and is now completing a Civil Engineering Degree Apprenticeship – a journey that began on an entry-level programme.
While still at school, Olivia enrolled on a BTEC in Construction and the Built Environment at the college’s Bersham Road site.
After successfully completing the qualification, she progressed to Level 3 in the same subject, further developing her knowledge of the sector and strengthening her ambitions to pursue a future in engineering.
Alongside her studies, Olivia secured an apprenticeship with Bingham Rawlings Partnership Ltd in Wrexham, a well-established civil and structural engineering consultancy delivering design services across domestic, commercial and public sector projects since the turn of the century.
Now working at the firm as an engineering technician, Olivia is a permanent member of the team and looking ahead to an exciting role in the industry.
“I’ve loved my time at Coleg Cambria,” she said. “I always wanted to go into this sector, and the college gave me the opportunity to start at entry level and work all the way up to a degree apprenticeship. With hard work and perseverance, you really can achieve your goals.”
Olivia’s journey has seen her complete a Higher National Certificate (HNC) before progressing onto the Civil Engineering degree apprenticeship pathway delivered at Bersham Road in partnership with Wrexham University.
“While studying I’ve also been gaining experience at Bingham Rawlings, which has been fantastic,” she added.
“The tutors at Cambria have been incredible, especially Tammy Barlow. Their support gave me the confidence to keep progressing and helped point me in the right direction to pursue my chosen career. My aim is to become a structural engineer and I’m excited to see what the next chapter brings.”
The degree apprenticeship pathway enables learners to combine academic study with paid employment, gaining practical experience in areas such as civil engineering, construction management and surveying while learning on the job.
Karl Jackson, Assistant Principal for the Institute of Technology and Site Lead at Bersham Road in Wrexham, praised Olivia’s commitment.
“Olivia’s journey is a fantastic example of how learners can progress through the college and build a successful career in their chosen field,” he said.
“Through dedication, employer partnerships and the support of our tutors, students can start at entry level and progress all the way to higher education and beyond. We’re incredibly proud to see Olivia thriving and wish her every success as she continues her journey.”
After completing her final year at Coleg Cambria, Olivia will move on to the final two years of her qualification at Wrexham University.
For more information, visit www.cambria.ac.uk and www.wrexham.ac.uk.