A former Lincoln College student who began his career working on the Grantham Southern Relief Road is continuing to make strong progress in the construction industry.
Oscar Lacey, who previously worked as an apprentice on the project, has now successfully completed his apprenticeship with contractor Galliford Try and taken the next step in his career.
Oscar is now working as a trainee site engineer and has also achieved EngTech MICE professional membership, meaning he is now a recognised professional member of the Institution of Civil Engineers.
Reflecting on the past three years, Oscar said his apprenticeship has given him valuable hands-on experience across a wide range of civil engineering disciplines.
Oscar said: “Over the last three years of my apprenticeship, I have further developed the various methods and techniques of setting out, as well as my skills and industry knowledge.
“This has included working on a range of highways and structures, including being involved in the bridge launch on the scheme.
“The complexity of this scheme has given me experience I wouldn't have gained on other sites so I'm incredibly grateful for being able to work on a project so close to home this size. I mean, when this is built, it will be really important to the region and I’m proud to be working on it.”
One of the most rewarding aspects of the apprenticeship, he said, has been the opportunity to apply what he has learned in the classroom to real-world projects.
He added: “Despite the challenges of balancing work alongside my studies, the most rewarding part of my apprenticeship is being able to apply the theory taught during the HNC and HND qualifications in real life and at work, seeing the design become reality.”
Achieving milestones and working locally
Oscar has achieved a number of significant milestones. Alongside completing his Level 4 HNC qualification, he has passed his apprenticeship end point assessment and gained professional membership with the Institution of Civil Engineers.
Oscar said: “The apprenticeship has enabled me to achieve so much,” he said. “Alongside my qualifications, I’ve developed the skills, techniques and industry knowledge needed to successfully set out, carry out quality checks, and ensure health and safety on site.”
Working on a major infrastructure project in his local area has also been a highlight.
He added: “It has been rewarding to get the opportunity to work on a road project within my local area, assisting with building local infrastructure that I will be able to see and use once complete.”
The road ahead for Oscar
Oscar is continuing to build on his success and is currently studying towards a Level 5 HND in civil engineering, which he expects to complete in summer 2027. He then plans to progress to a degree-level qualification.
Looking ahead, he is encouraging other young people to consider a similar career path.
He said: “I would highly recommend pursuing a career in civil engineering, especially through the apprenticeship route.
“It enables you to gain invaluable experience and knowledge whilst also completing a qualification, allowing you to put theory into practice first hand.”
Building up the next generation of British civil engineers
Cllr David East, executive member for highways, said: “Schemes like our major road projects don’t just deliver vital infrastructure for Lincolnshire – they also create fantastic opportunities for young people to gain hands-on experience and build lasting careers.
“It’s great to see people like Oscar developing their skills on site, learning from experienced professionals and playing a real role in delivering these sorts of projects.
“By supporting apprenticeships and on-the-job training, we’re helping to nurture the next generation of civil engineers and ensuring Lincolnshire continues to benefit from a highly skilled workforce in the years to come.”
Barry Knox, Contracts Manager for Galliford Try, said: “Apprenticeships like the one Oscar has undertaken are vital for companies like Galliford Try to secure the next generation of civil engineering talent. Oscar has excelled in his academic studies and in his work on site and I’m sure this is just the beginning of a long and successful career in the construction industry.”
For the latest news on the Grantham Southern Relief Road, visit www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/gsrr.