Callum’s Story

Callum Wara

Building Services Engineering HNC

Engineering a dream career

Callum is working towards his Building Services Engineering 
Higher National Certificate as part of a Level 4 apprenticeship – 
the equivalent of the first year of a degree.

He divides his time between learning on-the-job with Birmingham-based mechanical and electrical engineering firm CPW, his employer of nearly three years, and the University, where he gets to build on his theory in the classroom, but also attend workshops in cutting-edge construction facilities.

Callum, whose passion for engineering and problem-solving started as a Lego-loving child, said: “I completed my Level 3 at another college and for my Level 4, I had different options, but was really for going to University College Birmingham.

“It’s right in the centre of town and I loved the look of the facilities.” 

CPW helped to transform the city’s James Cond printworks into the University’s new Centre for Sustainable Construction, meaning Callum may have even played a part in the design of the facility where he receives his training.

On his course, Callum said: “The staff are great, friendly, and are genuinely interested in you. I’ve been to two other colleges and it’s not the same.

“I can’t wait to become a fully-qualified engineer.”

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