Safa Hojeij, began her journey as an Environmental Apprentice just five months ago, on our Next Gen Talent Programme, as part of a cohort of 19 apprentices across the UK who joined the business in 2025.
Safa works with our Noise, Air quality, Lighting, and Odour (NALO) team, where she is working on real projects and getting practical experience in environmental management alongside studying for a degree apprenticeship in Environmental Practice at Coventry University.
We caught up with Safa to discuss her experiences during the first five months of her apprenticeship.
Can you share what your first few months have been like as an apprentice at Tetra Tech?
The words I’d use are extremely rewarding and varied. It’s a bit of a juggle but so great to have so much to be doing and learning about. Whether that’s study days or getting practical experiences out on site or writing up and analysing my findings in the office. I have also been to a couple of events and training session organised by Tetra Tech alongside the other apprentices. I have packed in a lot!
Moving from Sixth Form into a professional environment was a massive change, but the welcoming team has made a huge difference. Everyone is so helpful and willing to share their expertise and knowledge.
My team and everyone I work with has been supportive and patient, helping me navigate new systems and processes and develop essential skills like writing reports for clients. This has really boosted my confidence and made it easier for me to ask questions whenever I need help, whilst I have found my feet.
What would you say to someone considering an apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships are a great opportunity to get practical experience alongside achieving a degree. To have the opportunity to be working for a large multinational consultancy like Tetra Tech is an amazing and it will allow me to develop on a personal and professional level quickly.
Even in a relatively short time with Tetra Tech I have had the opportunity to meet and work with so many people and feel trusted and respected to work on real projects. I really think it has helped me build a foundation for my career long term.
What inspired you to join the Next Gen Talent Programme at Tetra Tech?
Throughout school, and Sixth Form I always loved Geography, and I knew I wanted to work within the Environmental Field for my career. When I saw the Next Gen Talent Programme vacancies on LinkedIn, the role as an Environmental Apprentice really stood out to me; I knew I had to apply.
I really wanted the real-life experience, alongside my studies. It’s also been great doing this alongside a cohort of others. Being connected to other apprentices across the business, some who started with me in 2025 and some who are a little further into their apprenticeships, has allowed us to share our experiences and gain better understanding of each other’s role and other areas of the business.
How do you balance your university studies with your apprenticeship responsibilities?
As a degree apprentice, 20% of my time is spent on studying, so I have dedicated time towards my academics. This has allowed me to maintain a balance between work and university ensuring I’m using my time effectively to get my assignments done.
Of course, to balance both my studies and my role I make sure I have effective time management, I always try to prioritise deadlines This helps me stay ahead of tasks and reduces the pressure nearer deadlines.
If you’re interested in finding out more about our Next Gen Talent Programme Apprentice roles, take a look at:
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