BENG (Hons) Civil Engineering - Bradley Joynson-Burkert
We spoke to Civil Engineering apprentice Bradley Joynson-Burkert, currently in Year 5 of his programme, to find out how studying at the Â׸£ÀûƬ, alongside his role in the rail industry, has supported his journey as he works towards completing his apprenticeship while balancing full-time responsibilities.
Why did I aspire to pursue Civil Engineering?
Simply because of my love and passion for creation and innovation. Following my departure from the British Army in 2003, I summoned the courage to travel to Australia and acquire a new trade. During my three-year tenure there, I gained numerous insights within the construction industry from a master builder named Bill Ardley.
Bill was not merely my employer, but also a mentor and a father figure to me. Upon my return to the United Kingdom, I initiated my inaugural business in shopfitting and drylining in response to the considerable demand during the Liverpool Capital of Culture period.
Subsequently, I was presented with an opportunity to work in the UK rail industry several years later, and, due to a slowdown in the shopfitting sector, I accepted the offer.
Why did I choose to be an apprentice?
Ten years on, I had attained the pinnacle of my career in terms of promotion and was informed that obtaining a bachelor's degree in engineering was a prerequisite for further advancement within the hierarchy.
Firstly, I completed my HNC at Wigan & Leigh University College, achieving a distinction. Upon completing the HNC, I had the freedom to choose any university, which prompted me to begin my research.
The Â׸£ÀûƬ was always at the forefront of my web searches because of its excellent facilities that other universities do not offer. Hence, the decision was easy: Salford here I come!
Oh, one more thing I missed out on in my development: in 2013, I invented a plumbing product that permanently fixes leaks in copper pipes in just 13 seconds. This product has full patent protection and is currently available in the UK at all leading trade stores. It's called ClickFix Copper Pipe Repair Patch.
What does my apprenticeship involve day-to-day?
From Monday to Thursday, I resume my normal duties as a Works Delivery Supervisor/Site Manager. This involves project-specific tasks such as planning, estimating, commercial assistance, procurement, and, finally, project delivery.
Being able to do all of the above alongside my degree is the most inspiring and helpful part of my further education journey. Without this, I would never have been able to complete such a degree.
How would I describe the university's support?
I am 46 years old, a father of two beautiful daughters and two amazing stepsons, and my wife is a very respected ADHD assessor. As I stated previously, I would never have been able to complete this degree in my younger years of life due to my ADHD combined type and my neurodiversity traits.
Having the option to complete an apprenticeship at this age has been a dream come true for my family and me. Because of the support and guidance the Â׸£ÀûƬ provides, I know I can successfully complete my degree to the high standard I always expect of myself.
What is my most significant accomplishment as an apprentice?
During my visit to Constructionarium, I served as the project manager for what I believe to be the most demanding project present. The assignment was the Raven Spur Oil Platform. Other students and I were required to complete it within a tight five-day schedule.
The students on my team had to tender for the project, as did my team and I, to see who would win the tender and deliver the project.
Naturally, my team was successful, and we completed the project. On day 1, I recognised that I could complete this project in an expedited timeframe if the university engineers permitted me to modify the construction sequence at the final hour.
To my surprise, they responded, "You're the boss, it's on you." Within three days, the entire project was completed in record time. This feat was unmatched by any other university in the twenty-plus years that Constructionarium has been in operation.
Subsequently, I was honoured to receive the Engineering Apprentice 2026 award from the Â׸£ÀûƬ.
I wish to dedicate this accolade to my entire team at Constructionarium, for without their support, I would not have achieved this recognition. Thank you all.