331 words…a minute and a half read

One big thing: Aon’s UK Apprenticeship program recently celebrated its 10-year anniversary this past September.

• The program began in September 2012, where high school graduates could join the UK Department for Education-approved apprenticeship program as an alternative to university. In 2020, the program was listed at number 52 in the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers 2020 list published by the UK government.

To celebrate this milestone, Aon colleagues who were apprentices in the first cohort shared the impact the program has had on their lives. Josh Rowland, governance and analytics manager, at Aon, had this to say, “From day one, I’ve felt a culture of support, personal empowerment and widespread acceptance, where I’ve been fortunate enough to work in an environment in which I’ve never had to hide my personal life and have been able to be authentic throughout. I’ve connected with colleagues across varying levels and backgrounds and have undertaken countless challenges and opportunities, from which I’ve seen myself develop both personally and professionally.”

Looking back on the program, Julie Hyett, head of global colleague experience at Aon, said, “Starting apprenticeships saw Aon return to its roots of investing in early careers talent. The apprentices were learning on the job, benefitting from the experience of others, and being hands-on from day one while they were studying. We had no doubt this program would go from strength to strength, and we continue to be energized by the talent we recruit every year.”

Zoom out:

• This week was National Apprenticeship Week in the UK, which celebrates the achievements of apprentices and the positive impact they make on communities, businesses and the economy. The theme, “Skills for Life,” reflects on how apprenticeships can help individuals develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career.  
• The U.S. Apprenticeship Program was founded in 2017 and recently featured in a case study by Aspen Institute’s UpSkill America to show how the apprenticeship program works and the success the firm has seen. Read the case study here.