Star apprentice finds right path with project
A 20-YEAR-OLD who had never seriously thought of a career in construction until completing his A-Levels has gone on to be crowned as Apprentice of the Year.
When Abdul Tahir was considering his next steps, the opportunity to gain hands-on experience offered by a higher-level M-Futures apprenticeship on Manchester council’s Our Town Hall project proved enticing.
Abdul, from Whalley Range, seized his chance with both hands – so much so that he was named Steve Burne Apprentice of the Year at last year’s Greater Manchester Building of the Year awards.
The unique structure of M-Futures, which involves rotating placements with different project partners, provides an insight into several different aspects of the construction industry.
“One of the best things about M-Futures is that you can see the project from every perspective,” Abdul said.
“By experiencing all the elements of the Our Town Hall project, I can work out which is the best path for me to follow.
“I’d definitely recommend this apprenticeship to anyone who is willing to put the effort in. It’s not the easy option, but it leads to better options.”
With his apprenticeship ending in August, Abdul is well placed to continue on to a permanent job in the construction industry and hopes to specialise in project management.
The Our Town Hall project to safeguard, repair and partially restore the iconic Grade I-listed building is a once-in-a-generation scheme.
It is a flagship for Manchester’s commitment to social value and is intended to leave an enduring legacy in skills, jobs and inspiration, as well as protecting the building for future generations.
Social value means creating jobs, apprenticeships, training and skills opportunities for residents – especially those facing the greatest obstacles at work – and supporting the voluntary and community sector.
Coun Carl Ollerhead, Executive Member for Finance, said: “Social value isn’t just a concept – it’s something which delivers real and lasting benefits to Manchester people.”