Apprentice to Construction Manager: Sam’s Story
Apprenticeships are often underestimated, with misconceptions that they don’t lead to high-level careers or valuable qualifications. However, Sam’s journey at Gusto Construction is proof that apprenticeships can be the foundation of a long, successful career.
Sam joined Gusto Construction at 16 years old straight from school, choosing to take the apprenticeship route over traditional academic study. Starting with a Joinery Apprenticeship at Lincoln College, he quickly gained hands-on experience by working across multiple construction projects, such as affordable housing, low carbon and energy efficient housing, community-led development and retirement living. Fast forward 20 years, and Sam is now Gusto Construction’s Construction Manager, overseeing multiple sites across Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire.
As this week is National Apprenticeship Week, we tackle two major apprenticeship myths and see how Sam’s experience proves them wrong.
Myth #1: "Apprenticeships Don’t Lead to Managerial Roles"
The Myth: Many believe that apprenticeships are only for entry-level jobs and don’t provide a clear path to leadership or management positions.
The Reality: Sam’s career is living proof that apprenticeships can lead to high-level roles. After completing his apprenticeship, Gusto Construction hired Sam full-time, allowing him to expand his skills on-site and work across different projects. Through continuous training and development, he worked his way up from site-based roles to Site Management, and eventually to Construction Manager.
Now, in his leadership role, Sam’s responsibilities include:
✔ Supporting site managers to ensure smooth project delivery.
✔ Overseeing site operations and ensuring health & safety compliance.
✔ Managing contracts, orders, and ensuring resources are in place for on-site teams.
Sam’s Perspective:
“Rather than the apprenticeship itself, it was the hands-on site experience that truly prepared me for the working in the construction industry. Over the years, I have built my expertise through practical exposure, continuous learning, and industry-specific training. This combination of experience and training has equipped me with the knowledge and skills required to take on leadership and specialist roles within construction.
Many people say that apprenticeships do not lead to managerial roles, but that is simply not true. Progression is entirely dependent on the individual — their ambition, work ethic, and willingness to seize opportunities. Apprenticeships provide a solid foundation for career growth, and those who are committed to advancing will find plenty of opportunities to move into managerial roles.”
Myth #2: "Apprenticeships Don’t Offer Recognised Qualifications"
The Myth: Some people assume that apprenticeships don’t offer qualifications that are as valuable as a university degree.
The Reality: Sam’s apprenticeship wasn’t just about hands-on learning — he also gained official qualifications. He studied for three years at Lincoln College, earning his NVQ Level 3 in Joinery. Alongside this, Sam has gained additional qualifications such as NVQ Level 3 in Occupational Work Supervision and NVQ Level 6 in Construction Site Management. Throughout his career, he has also completed various industry training programs to enhance his expertise and progress within the company, such as Fire Awareness, Asbestos Awareness, IOSH (Institute of Occupational Safety and Health) and First Aid.
Sam’s Perspective:
"An apprenticeship got me out of the classroom environment and into real work situations, while still allowing me to gain industry recognised qualifications. I also earned a wage while learning, which was a huge advantage.
An apprenticeship puts you straight into the real world, where you can gain hands-on experience while working towards industry-recognised qualifications. One of the biggest advantages is that you earn a wage while you learn, rather than accumulating student debt. For those who thrive in practical environments, an apprenticeship offers a direct and effective route into a successful career with strong progression opportunities.”
Sam’s final thoughts:
“My apprenticeship has certainly shaped my career over the last 20 years. It provided me with a strong foundation in construction, starting from the ground up. I progressed from an Apprentice Joiner to Site Joiner, then to Site Manager, Contracts Manager, and now Construction Manager. This hands-on experience has given me a comprehensive understanding of every aspect of construction, allowing me to grow and excel in my career while managing projects at various levels within the industry.
For anyone who is considering an apprenticeship, I’d say go for it! If, like me, you're not necessarily an academic person, an apprenticeship is a fantastic way to build a career while gaining real-world experience. Sitting in a classroom for years wasn’t the right path for me — I needed to get out and work in a hands-on environment. The skills and experience I’ve gained have been invaluable, and choosing an apprenticeship has paid off in every way.”
Sam’s 20-year journey at Gusto Construction proves that apprenticeships are more than just an alternative to university — they are a direct route into skilled, high-level careers. From hands-on learning to leadership roles, apprenticeships provide real opportunities for growth.