Trainee Project Manager Review

During my summer internship at Arcadis as a Project Manager Trainee, I supported various project managers and teams. My role involved administrative tasks like writing meeting minutes and updating trackers, as well as more advanced responsibilities such as creating Project Execution Plans, engaging with clients, and conducting site walkarounds. I also worked with and became familiar with software tools like Smartsheet and Oracle Aconex, coordinated with the Global Excellence Centre in Manila, and assisted in the change control process. This diverse experience allowed me to build a strong foundation in project management and contribute meaningfully to the projects.

Yes, I have developed several new skills and enhanced my existing ones during my internship at Arcadis. In addition to supporting various project managers and teams with tasks like creating Project Execution Plans, engaging with clients, and conducting site walkarounds, I have significantly improved my people skills, conversational abilities, and presentation skills. This experience has boosted my confidence in my own abilities, helped me overcome challenges, and encouraged me to think outside the box to solve problems. I have also become more confident speaking in front of large groups and participating actively in team meetings. Additionally, I have learned essential project management skills such as reading and understanding programmes, comprehending different trackers, and navigating the RIBA stages.

Yes, I was given a significant amount of responsibility during my internship, which I am grateful for. This trust from my seniors allowed me to build my skills to a level where I could contribute meaningfully to the projects. I was tasked with producing and amending important documents such as Project Execution Plans, Risk Registers, and Meeting Agendas. My contributions helped push the projects closer to successful completion, and I am really proud of the impact I made. I am also grateful to my mentors for their guidance and training, which enabled me to take on these responsibilities confidently.

I received exceptional support throughout my internship. Even before I began, my line manager and buddy reached out to introduce themselves, making me feel welcomed and at home at Arcadis. We had an introductory meeting before my start date, which was fantastic and set a positive tone. On my first day, they were wonderful, easing me into the company by showing me everything from using the coffee machine to handling payslips. They taught me about project management with the dedication of a lecturer, ensuring I understood the concepts and the positive impact of our work. This level of support continued throughout my internship, with my mentors always available to answer any questions, no matter how small. They encouraged me to ask anything, even during their lunch breaks, creating a supportive and nurturing environment. Their willingness to help and their constant availability made my experience truly exceptional. I am incredibly grateful for their guidance and support, which made Arcadis feel like a second home.

The company culture at Arcadis was truly wonderful. Everyone, regardless of their seniority, was approachable and humble, fostering genuine human interactions. There were no egos, and a strong sense of respect permeated the workplace, which I really appreciated. Colleagues were always ready to support each other, often going out of their way to help. This created a positive and nurturing environment where everyone contributed to a cycle of mutual assistance. This supportive atmosphere was reflected in the high-quality projects and work that Arcadis consistently delivers. It was a pleasure to be part of such a collaborative and respectful team.

I thoroughly enjoyed my internship at Arcadis and am incredibly thankful for the opportunity to be part of such an amazing company. I have learned numerous skills and developed a unique skillset that I can leverage in my future career. This experience has motivated me to strive for excellence, support my peers in achieving their best, and deliver successful projects with strong ethics, all thanks to Arcadis’ values which I have incorporated within myself.

Yes

My advice for anyone applying to Arcadis is to make the most of every day and truly appreciate the opportunity. Don’t waste a single minute; if things are quiet, use that time to build connections, make friends, and deepen your understanding of the industry and your clients. View things from the customer’s perspective and use this time to gain extra qualifications through Arcadis’ Learning Experience Platform (LXP). Don’t be shy about setting up meetings with senior members—they are friendly and willing to help. Learn about your project, understand client needs, and respect everyone involved. Be eager to learn and grateful for being part of such an amazing company. Lastly, study Arcadis’ mission, as it will help you align yourself with the company and better lead projects to success.