Interview with CEF Apprentice of the Year Annie Crozier

Annie Crozier, an Apprentice Engineer at Heron Bros., has been named the inaugural CEF Apprentice of the Year, providing a salient case study for talent development within the construction sector. Her trajectory, from a family background in the industry to securing a Foundation Degree and now pursuing a BEng in Civil Engineering, underscores the efficacy of the apprenticeship model. Crozier advocates strongly for this route, citing its 'earn while you learn' advantage, hands-on skill acquisition, and the invaluable opportunity to directly apply academic knowledge on site—elements she asserts are crucial for gaining a comprehensive understanding of engineering roles. Her proactive engagement in developing construction technologies and providing mentorship to junior engineers highlights a commitment to continuous professional development and leadership qualities. Crozier's ambition to become a Chartered Civil Engineer and her involvement in Heron Bros.' digitisation efforts align directly with strategic industry priorities for innovation and advanced skill sets. Her success, significantly bolstered by robust mentoring from experienced engineers, presents a compelling argument for senior decision-makers to scale investment in structured apprenticeship programmes. Such initiatives are vital for nurturing future leadership, addressing persistent skills gaps, and advancing gender diversity within a rapidly evolving construction landscape, ultimately enhancing industry resilience and capability. Read More