April 2025
Jai’s Story
By Jai Berry
Share post:Read time: approx 2 mins
Jai Berry
A world to build out there
When Jai, a fabricator for a regional engineering firm, decided to take the leap into project management, he chose a University College Birmingham apprenticeship to elevate his skills and expertise.
With a passion for construction from an early age, he learned the basics on an engineering course at sixth form, after which he completed an apprenticeship in fabricating and welding at equipment manufacturer JCB.
Working for JCB for three years, where his job included building excavators, he then joined D&C Engineering in Tamworth working on concrete plants.
Fast forward two years and it was time to take a step up. adi Group took him on as a junior project manager and supported him in the transition by enrolling him on the HNC apprenticeship at University College Birmingham.
He said: “I looked at what the course had to offer with my manager and the topics covered were massively related to my everyday working activities.
“After completing my first semester at the University, I noticed my everyday skills at work improving.
“University College Birmingham offers fantastic, modern facilities that are always accessible to students around the campus. Whether you are looking for a social group to talk to or peace and quiet to get on with your studies, it offers it all.”
Jai, who has ambitions to eventually travel with work and project manage “huge constructions”, has also received plenty of support.
“The constant support from the tutors has been fantastic,” he said. “If I am ever confused or stuck with a problem, they are easy to contact and are happy to help.
“Everybody on my course is so welcoming and friendly. I have met some great people who will stay my good friends for many years to come.
“Overall, my time at the University so far has been fantastic. As we all know, Birmingham is a very lively city with a fantastic night life. If you are looking for the best university experience, look no further than this university.”