
Lauren Duguid
Environment & Sustainability Apprentice at Balfour Beatty
Do what brings you joy. The time will pass either way.
About Lauren...
Who am I?
"I am currently working towards my environmental practitioner degree apprenticeship, studying one day a week whilst I work as an environment and sustainability consultant in the construction industry. In my day-to-day work, I am responsible for monitoring environmental compliance and engaging with communities affected by construction. I matched with the 'Influencer' type, which I can see in the fact that I have a deep understanding of the importance of diversity in places and people, which I have gained from my work with youth advocacy and environmental charities. I believe that spaces should be designed to solve problems, so that people can feel safe, and are able to grow, create, and work together. I am able to explain these concepts in great detail and am good at finding an reviewing information.I matched with the 'Manager' Type, which is shown by how I can work well within a team of mixed professionals and keep myself and my tasks well organised, and often chair meetings as I am good at facilitating discussions and making sure everyone feels listened to and included.I do a lot of Quality Assurance within my role which meant it wasn't a surprise when I also got matched with the 'Quality Controller' type"
What do I do?
"I assist in managing environmental legal compliance on construction site, and make sure that the company is doing its best to be sustainable and reduce its carbon footprint. I also help with our social value initiatives, making sure that the work we do benefits the communities we are working in."
How did I get here?
"I knew I didn't want to go to university so I took the skills I'd gained through my part time and volunteering roles to go straight into the workplace through an apprenticeship. "
The life I live
"Outside of my 9-5 job, I volunteer for the Youth Futures Foundation and am heavily involved in the music and arts scene in Yorkshire. I'm an avid hiker and climber and love spending time in nature. When not working, I can often be found visiting libraries, galleries and old buildings with pretty gardens, often with a big mug of tea in hand! ☕"
My typical day
"I spend the majority of my day dealing with or presenting data, so that the company can better understanding how we are performing environmentally. I also assist in writing and proofreading long documents about environmental policy and making sure these are communicated to the right people. About 30% of my Job is about being out on construction sites and checking that we are performing well and following environmental procedures properly."
My qualifications
"4 A Levels (Maths, Physics, Geography & Politics)Currently Studying Part-time as a Level 6 (Degree) Environmental Practitioner Apprentice (https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/environmental-practitioner-degree-v1-1)"