Gabriel Cuciureanu

As a Project Management Apprentice at Network Rail, I have gained a comprehensive understanding of project management through an intensive program that spans multiple disciplines, including commercial, asset management, engineering, and procurement. This hands-on experience has enabled me to develop a well-rounded skill set and practical insights into the complexities of infrastructure projects.

Notable Projects and Locations:
I have contributed to a variety of projects across multiple locations and disciplines, enhancing my ability to adapt to different environments and challenges. Key projects include:

• Bishopsgate, Tunnel Strengthening, Shoreditch
• Tottenham North Curve, Retaining Wall, Kentish Town
• River Deben, Bridge Strengthening, Suffolk
• River Derwent, Bridge Strengthening, Derby
• Sharnbrook, Bridge Strengthening, Bedford
• Seaton South, Embankment, Rutland
• Oakley, Embankment, Buckinghamshire
• Chitt's Hill, Embankment, Essex

Through these structures and earthworks projects, I have gained hands-on experience in helping with their day to day operation, addressing diverse engineering challenges, managing project timelines, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and adhering to the PACE framework. My apprenticeship has provided me with a solid foundation to advance further in project management within the rail industry and beyond.

I completed a five day placement with HMRC in Croydon for my Year 12 work experience. This covered various parts of the daily activities of HMRC and the Valuation office including: measuring and valuing buildings, how taxes are set and distributed, presentations, saving failing industries, insight into apprenticeships and team activities. I gained invaluable knowledge and insight into the lives of established professionals in Economics and Finance as well as the Civil Service.

This helped to transform my teamwork, analytical and problem-solving skills as it was a rigorous week filled with lots of group tasks, research, data analysis, debating and problem-solving exercises. I also had to complete a presentation on how I felt an empty building in the centre of Croydon should be used if given the funding, applying everything I had learnt throughout the week. My presentation was a resounding success and impressed the HMRC senior staff. This boosted my presentation and communication skills.