Oscar Cook

Hello, I'm Oscar, a Project Management Degree Apprentice in the Transformation, Delivery, and Consulting (TDC) team at AtkinsRéalis. I collaborate with our clients to deliver innovative Project, Programme, and Portfolio management solutions. As a PMO Analyst, I support my client in delivering their Digital Strategy by analyzing and improving core PMO processes.

What have you enjoyed most about your AtkinsRéalis Apprenticeship?
My role as Project Manager for a previous client. Both the client and I had reservations. I wasn't sure if the project was something I'd want to do or be interested in, and the client had doubts that an apprentice could handle such a demanding role. We were both pleasantly proved wrong. The project was incredibly engaging, and I thrived in its urgency. The client later admitted their initial doubts but expressed how pleased they were with my input, even saying they wouldn't hesitate to hire another apprentice. It was empowering to change their perspective on apprentices and be seen for my value.

What is the best thing about working for AtkinsRéalis?
One of the best things about working as a Project Management Degree Apprentice at AtkinsRéalis is how they give you opportunities to prove your capabilities and make a difference, which is really empowering.

What is your top advice for future apprentices?
Firstly, don't wait or deliberate—if you're looking for alternatives to university, just apply! You won't regret it. And I'd recommend applying sooner rather than later. As you can imagine, the application is very comprehensive, so it takes a little while to complete. Secondly, emphasize your passion, your USP, and where you can add value. This will help your application stand out from the rest. Lastly, take your time with the application to ensure it's the best it can be—chipping away at it day by day will make it much less overwhelming. Good luck!

How are you shaping your career goals on projects that interest you?
Through experience, I understand that I struggle to give all my effort to projects or jobs that I am uninterested in or do not believe in the value of, and so I try to tailor my career goals and experiences to make sure I am doing something that interests me and something I firmly believe is a valuable and worthwhile delivery. I also have a handful of lifelong goals, and so where possible, I will tailor my career goals to contribute towards my lifegoals in some small way at least.

What industry exposure have you enjoyed as an AtkinsRéalis apprentice?
Recently, AtkinsRéalis entered a Strategic Delivery Partnership with National Highways. As a PMO Analyst on National Highways' Digital Strategy, I've provided key analytics on core PMO processes and offered solutions to improve inefficiencies, guiding their change journey to enhance service offerings.

Why choose AtkinsRéalis?
I chose AtkinsRéalis for the breadth of work opportunities they offer. I hadn't known much about them until I saw their Degree Apprenticeship role advertised, so I did some research and discovered the incredible global footprint they’ve had in the engineering and consultancy industriess. I loved the idea of being part of these projects and being able to say, 'I worked on that.' So, naturally, I submitted my application!

Ready to explore our projects and shape a sustainable future? Find out more about Apprenticeships with AtkinsRéalis.