My Â鶹´«Ã½ Story: Building hands-on experience and technical skills with Erin Baker
September 11, 2025
Apprentice civil engineer Erin shares how working on sustainable infrastructure projects aligns with her career goals
In the My Â鶹´«Ã½ Story series, our designers, engineers, marketers, project managers, and leaders come together to share how their career journeys at Â鶹´«Ã½ have shaped their lives and moved them closer to their goals.
Tell us about your role¡
I¡¯m a Level 3 apprentice civil engineer with the Highways team in Â鶹´«Ã½¡¯s Bristol office. I work on a variety of infrastructure schemes that strive for sustainability and carbon reduction. Currently, I¡¯m entering the final year of my apprenticeship, gaining hands-on experience while building technical skills and industry knowledge that will support my future career.
What attracted you to a career at Â鶹´«Ã½?
After finishing my A-levels, I wanted to focus my interest in engineering into a specific industry. Â鶹´«Ã½ stood out to me for its commitment to sustainability, its welcoming culture, and the opportunity to work on real projects from day one. The chance to learn while contributing to meaningful work, especially in areas like active travel and carbon reduction, made Â鶹´«Ã½ the perfect place to start my career journey.
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What do you enjoy most about your role?
I really enjoy working on projects that align with my values, especially those looking to improve transport and reduce carbon. Every day is different, and I love the mix of technical learning and collaboration. Being part of a supportive team that encourages growth and gives me space to contribute makes my role both exciting and rewarding.
How has your personal and professional development been supported at Â鶹´«Ã½?
Stantec has supported me in so many ways, from day-to-day mentoring and computer-aided design (CAD) training to help with college assignments. My team is always happy to answer questions and guide me through new challenges. I¡¯ve also been encouraged to attend Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) events, which have helped me connect with others in similar roles and expand my understanding of the wider industry. Joining groups like the South West Civils Carbon Team and the Bristol social team has helped me grow personally and professionally.
The chance to learn while contributing to meaningful work, especially in areas like active travel and carbon reduction, made Â鶹´«Ã½ the perfect place to start my career journey.
What has been the standout project for you during your time at Â鶹´«Ã½?
The Bus Service Improvement Plan has been a standout project for me. I started working on it during my first year and learned many of the basics that set me up for future success. I¡¯ve had the chance to follow it through multiple phases, which helped me understand how a project evolves over time. It¡¯s been incredibly rewarding to see how my contributions have supported a scheme that improves public transport and accessibility.
What are your ambitions for your future at Â鶹´«Ã½?
After completing my Level 3 apprenticeship, I plan to progress onto a Level 6 apprenticeship to earn a civil engineering degree. I want to continue developing my skills, take on more responsibility, and work on projects that make a positive impact on communities and the environment.
What are your passions outside of work?
I love staying active and busy outside of work. I¡¯m currently doing my Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, which has included kickboxing and volunteering as a Cub leader. These activities have helped me meet new people, stay fit, and learn valuable life skills. I also enjoy organising social events with the Bristol office team¡ªeverything from bowling to board game nights!
Why should others join the Â鶹´«Ã½ team?
Stantec is an amazing place to start your career. Everyone is genuinely willing to support and teach you, which makes learning feel natural and exciting. Whether it¡¯s help with college work, training on software, or guidance on projects, the team is always there to help you progress. Â鶹´«Ã½ is a welcoming environment where you¡¯re encouraged to grow and succeed.
At Â鶹´«Ã½, we put people first. For Erin, that means having the support to build her career in a meaningful way that aligns with her values.
