If you had told me two years ago that I’d become an ambassador for apprenticeships, I would not have believed you. Back then, I saw apprenticeships as a fallback - something you applied to “just in case.” Today, I couldn’t be prouder to say I was completely wrong.

Chasing the “Traditional” Path

For as long as I can remember, I assumed my future lay in STEM. I loved maths and problem-solving, engineering felt like the obvious decision. When studying cosmology in physics sparked an interest in aerospace, the path seemed laid out: aim high, get into a top university.

My sixth form reinforced this. University was the goal. Apprenticeships, while mentioned, never seemed to carry the same weight. They were there to “cover your bases,” but never really promoted. So, like many others, I bought into the idea that the only respectable way forward was getting into the best university possible.

And then I stepped through the doors of Imperial College London for an open day.

The day ended up being a reality check. Hearing that their aerospace courses alone were producing far more graduates than the industry needed shocked me. I realised I needed to rethink what I valued, not focus on what everyone else seemed to.

I narrowed it down to three non-negotiables:

1.      Job Security – I wanted a future-proof field where technology and change would create opportunity, not instability.

2.      Financial Stability – The thought of huge debt felt like starting my journey on the back foot.

3.      Room to Grow – I wanted a path where I could progress fast, learn in real situations, and influence my own progress.

That’s when nuclear caught my eye - and I started to seriously consider apprenticeships.

Finding My Place in Nuclear

Nuclear wasn’t the discipline I had imagined myself in, and joining AtkinsRéalis as a new degree apprentice felt intimidating. Starting from point zero - a new field, new challenges, and new expectations. But this quickly changed.

Nuclear is in a golden age. Massive investment, huge national projects and in desperate need of people. It’s a field where curiosity is encouraged and innovation is constant. Suddenly I found myself working on real projects, surrounded by people who genuinely wanted me to grow. I worried that I would miss opportunities by choosing an apprenticeship. Instead, I discovered new ones that I never knew existed.

Growth Beyond the Job Description

The biggest change hasn’t been the industry or the work, but my attitude to opportunities.

Apprenticeships let you learn and develop without the pressure of having to be an expert on day one. I’ve been encouraged to ask questions, experiment, and - most importantly - make mistakes. AtkinsRéalis has an incredibly supportive environment where I’ve been able to push limits, learn more about my strengths and improve from any challenges.

I used to dread public speaking. The thought of standing in front of a crowd would make my stomach turn. Now it excites me - just recently I co-led a panel event with KPMG and helped run a networking session at a regional AAN conference. I have changed fundamentally as a person, actively pursuing opportunities that once terrified me.

Being surrounded by enthusiastic, experienced professionals has expanded my horizons. I’m no longer just getting a job; I’m building a career and shaping it myself.

Building Impact Beyond Work

Building confidence has been one of my greatest changes, largely thanks to the opportunities I’ve embraced outside of work. Recently, I became the West of England & Somerset County Lead for the South-West Apprentice Ambassador Network (SWAAN) and an Aspiring Apprentice Lead within Outer Circle (OC).

These communities are dedicated to widening access and awareness around apprenticeships, something that’s become incredibly important to me. I started off dismissing apprenticeships, and now I am doing everything I can to make sure others don’t overlook what I nearly did.

Advice I Wish Someone Had Told Me

If you are standing where I once stood - unsure and trying to pick the “right” path, here is what I wish I had known:

1. Apprenticeships are not the risky option.

Stepping away from the well-travelled path may seem daunting or risky. However, a year of paid experience, no debt, and a foot in the door is a lot less risky than thousands of pounds of debt and the same chance you might not be enthusiastic about the industry.

2. Be intentional when applying.

Quality beats quantity. Learn about the company, tailor your application, and tell your story - not what you think they want to hear.

3. Make the Most of the Opportunity.

You will grow the most when you lean into discomfort. Say yes to opportunities that scare you. Apprenticeships give you a soft landing - use it.

Looking Back - and Forward

Before I started, I didn’t understand everything apprenticeships had to offer. They are not the “easy” option, or a “backup.” They are a powerful alternative route into professional careers - and one that deserves to be considered alongside university.

It isn’t always easy to balance work and study, but choosing an apprenticeship has given me experience, confidence, and direction far beyond what I expected.

If you’re unsure about your next step, don’t overlook apprenticeships. They changed my life for the better - and they could do the same for you.

Ronan Hirons

Nuclear Degree Apprentice at AtkinsRéalis

You can find out more and connect with Ronan on LinkedIn.