Fugro: developing real-world experience with work-based learning

In this case study we feature Lewis Mitchell from Fugro. Lewis, a Tendering Project Manager, recently graduated with First Class Honours in our IT Management for Business Graduate Apprenticeship programme.

Fugro is a global leader in geo-data solutions, providing services that help clients design, build, and operate their assets safely and sustainably. Fugro specialise in collecting and analysing data about the Earth’s surface and subsurface, supporting industries like energy, maritime, and construction.

Lewis' role encompasses business acquisition and marketing, which involves preparing and submitting tenders, negotiating contract terms, and supporting business development activities. Prior to joining Fugro, Lewis worked as an IT Project Manager in the financial services sector.

In this Q&A, Lewis explains how his Graduate Apprenticeship has already boosted his career and has set him up for future progression.

Where did you hear about Graduate Apprenticeships as an option to upskill/reskill?

I first learned about the Graduate Apprenticeship programme through my previous employer. Several colleagues within the business were already enrolled and shared their experiences, insights, and the benefits of the programme. This gave me a clear understanding of how it worked and how it could support both professional development and career progression.

What was it about the Graduate Apprenticeship that appealed to you the most?

When I left school, I was quite indecisive about my next steps. I considered continuing my education through college or university, but at the time, I didn’t feel particularly academic or committed enough to achieve the results I wanted. Instead, I chose an apprenticeship as the best route, allowing me to start working while keeping the option of further qualifications open for the future.

What really appealed to me about the Graduate Apprenticeship was the combination of working while learning. Being able to apply academic knowledge directly to my role while developing essential skills makes the experience incredibly rewarding. It offers the perfect balance of gaining practical experience, earning a salary, and achieving a degree without stepping away from full-time employment.

Did you ever consider a traditional degree?

Yes, as mentioned earlier, I did consider pursuing a traditional degree when I left school. However, at the time, I didn’t feel that it was the best way for me to learn. I preferred a more practical approach where I could gain real-world experience alongside my studies. Graduate Apprenticeship programmes weren’t available back then, they were introduced slightly later in my career, around two to three years in. When I heard about the GA option, I immediately felt it was a great fit for my learning style and career goals, and I’m glad I chose this route instead of the traditional degree.

During your degree, how did the Graduate Apprenticeship help you in your job (and your career)?

Initially, the ITMB course felt more aligned with my previous role in IT. However, halfway through my third year, I transitioned into a new role at Fugro. Rather than halting the degree, I continued with the full support of my new employer and I’m extremely grateful I did. The modules remained highly relevant and applicable to my responsibilities, which was a huge benefit.

Overall, the Graduate Apprenticeship has had a hugely positive impact on my career. The ability to apply academic learning directly to real-world projects made concepts easier to understand and deliver tangible results. For example:

• Improved Writing & Communication: My report writing and proposal development skills improved significantly, which is critical in tendering and client communications.
• Critical Thinking & Risk Assessment: Modules on business strategy and project management helped me assess risks more effectively during tender preparation.
• Time Management: Balancing work and study strengthened my organisational skills, which has been invaluable in managing multiple tenders and deadlines.

The programme also supported my career progression. This year, after completing my degree, I was promoted from Assistant Tendering Project Manager to Tendering Project Manager, taking on greater responsibilities and removing the “Assistant” title. This promotion was partly a recognition of my ability to manage both work and academic commitments successfully.

The experience reinforced my belief in lifelong learning and the value of combining practical experience with academic development. The Graduate Apprenticeship didn’t just enhance my technical and professional skills it opened doors to new opportunities and accelerated my career growth.

Looking back, how would you sum up your Graduate Apprenticeship experience?

Overall, it was an incredibly rewarding experience that I know I’ll continue to benefit from throughout my career. There were undoubtedly challenging moments along the way but overcoming those made crossing the finish line even sweeter. The combination of academic learning and practical application gave me valuable skills, confidence, and opportunities that I wouldn’t have gained through a traditional route.

Looking ahead, how do you think your Graduate Apprenticeship will impact your future career?

Absolutely, it’s a qualification that I now have for life, and that can’t be taken away. It will only put me in a stronger position going forward, opening up more opportunities and helping me stand out in a competitive industry. Beyond the degree itself, I’ll continue to use the knowledge, skills, and experiences I gained throughout the programme to add value in my current role and any future roles.

If someone was considering a Graduate Apprenticeship, what advice would you give them?

My advice is simple: DO IT! If, like me, school and traditional studying weren’t necessarily your strength at the time, but you feel ready to commit to a challenge and learn while making a real impact in the workplace, there truly is no better option.

A graduate apprenticeship gives you the chance to gain practical experience, earning while you learn, and apply academic knowledge directly to real-world situations. It’s a fantastic way to build confidence, develop valuable skills, and open doors to career progression all while avoiding the disconnect that sometimes comes with purely classroom-based learning.