Husam works at Cogent Skills as a Programme Management Degree Apprentice within the Nuclear sector.
Husam's Story
Working in the nuclear sector is more than just a job – it's a chance to contribute to a sustainable and innovative future. As a project manager within the Nuclear sector, I am passionate about bridging the critical skills gap in our industry, ensuring we have the talent needed to drive forward the advancements that will help achieve a net-zero world.
The collaborative spirit and shared commitment to sustainability that I encounter daily in this sector are truly inspiring and motivate me to deliver impactful projects. My journey began as a degree apprentice, where I quickly recognised the immense potential of nuclear energy to make a real difference in our world. Being entrusted with a project management role so early in my career has been both an honour and a challenge, and I'm excited to continue contributing to the transformative work that powers a cleaner, more sustainable future.
What does your role involve?
As a Programme Management degree apprentice, my role involves supporting the planning, execution, and delivery of projects. I’m responsible for defining project scopes, creating timelines, allocating resources and ensuring projects are completed in budget and on schedule. Collaborating closely with people right across the board is crucial.
What does a typical day look like?
A typical day involves managing project timelines, participating in team meetings to assess progress, and identifying and mitigating potential risks. I spend time working with colleagues and stakeholders to address any issues, provide updates and keep the project on track.
What has been your biggest challenge?
My biggest challenge has been adjusting to the length of project lifecycles in the nuclear sector. Projects typically span several years or even decades – and this requires effective communication, adjusting project plans and working closely with the team. This brought home to me the importance of flexibility and adaptability.
What are you looking forward to working on in the year ahead?
I’m excited about the launch of Destination Nuclear. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be involved in such a large and important project, and I look forward to the campaign showcasing what careers in the nuclear sector has to offer. I’m confident it will attract and retain the workforce required to deliver the sector’s ambitions.
Why did you choose an apprenticeship?
I chose a programme management degree apprenticeship because it offered a unique opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. The combination of hands-on experience and mentoring lets me develop practical skills while contributing to meaningful projects, while having the opportunity to pursue a degree was also very important to me.
What advice would you give to anyone considering an apprenticeship?
Anyone considering a route similar to mine should actively seek out a range of project experiences: engage with your team, learn from experienced colleagues and embrace challenges as opportunities to learn. Effective communication and adaptability are key skills in programme management, so be prepared to collaborate and remember to build a strong foundation during the apprenticeship – this will set you up for a fulfilling career in programme management.
