We caught up with one of our talented apprentices, Daniel, this Scottish Apprenticeship Week to hear about his journey so far at KR Group.
Daniel is currently completing a Data Analyst Modern Apprenticeship, alongside his role as Operations and Digital Innovations Assistant. In his role, he supports tendering and operations, while also helping develop smarter systems, data insights and digital improvements.
From combining his passion for technology with real-world experience in construction and engineering, Daniel is helping develop practical digital solutions. He shares what a typical day looks like, what surprised him most about the industry, and his advice for others.
(And when he’s not working with data? You’ll likely find him out on the golf course!)
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your role at KR Group?
I’m the Operations and Digital Innovation Assistant at KR Group. I first joined the team in S6 for work experience through their KRedit scheme, working flexibly around my school studies. I then went on to study game design at university, while continuing to work at KR during holidays.
Over time, I realised I wanted to pivot away from game design and full-time education towards construction and engineering. In 2025, I moved into a full-time role and enrolled in a Data Analytics Modern Apprenticeship at KR Group. This has allowed me to develop new skills, while continuing to work with the team.
Why did you choose an apprenticeship?
I decided to do an apprenticeship after spending a year at RGU and realising university wasn’t the best fit. I preferred being in a working environment and found the hybrid learning style suited me better.
Being at KR Group has given me the chance to see different areas of the construction industry, and learn from others. My colleagues have different skills and experience, so I learn a lot just by speaking with them daily. Being involved in day-to-day work also helps me build my understanding of how the industry operates.
What’s been your favourite project or moment so far?
My favourite part of the job is seeing projects progress, especially as I’ve taken on more responsibility. At the start of a project, I often speak with new clients to understand their requirements at the tender stage. I then work with our Quantity Surveyors to review the information and help price the enquiry.
Once the costs are prepared, I send them to the client and follow up to make sure everything has been received. I also answer any questions they might have about the pricing or the enquiry. It’s rewarding to see enquiries turn into live projects when clients decide to go ahead. I’m also involved once a project is secured, helping make sure the process runs smoothly for our clients.
What does a typical day look like for you?
There isn’t really a typical day in my role because I’m involved with a lot of different departments. I’m usually jumping between tasks depending on what comes up. This can range from logging tenders and setting up new jobs to helping resolve IT queries across the company, whether that’s with computers in the office or machinery in the workshop.
Every day is a bit different, which keeps things interesting. I’m never bored, and a big part of my role is looking at ways we can improve systems and processes across the business.
What’s something that’s surprised you about the construction and engineering industry?
One thing that surprised me is how many regulations and policies there are in the industry. Everything has to meet strict standards and client requirements before work can go ahead. This can include standards around steel fabrication and storage, as well as documentation and building regulations to make sure everything is done properly.
There are also HSEQ requirements to follow, such as RAMS and lift plans, which often need to be reviewed and approved by the client before work starts. It’s something you don’t always realise until you’re working in the industry, but it shows how important safety and quality are in construction.
Favourite thing about working at KR Group?
My favourite thing about my job is the variety of tasks I get to do each day. It means no two days are the same, and when I come in each morning I never really know what’s in store.
The people I work with also make a big difference. Everyone in the team is really focused on their work, but we still make time to have a laugh when we can — which definitely helps on the longer days.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in the industry?
Three things. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Even if you think they’re silly, they usually aren’t — and your colleagues are there to help you learn and progress. Always listen when someone takes the time to teach you something new, as there’s a lot of experience around you to learn from. And finally, get involved whenever you can. The more you understand about different parts of the business, the better, so if you get the chance to work with other departments or be part of a project, take it.
Visit our APPRENTICESHIPS AND TRAINEESHIPS page to find out more about learning opportunities at KR Group. You can also check out our CAREERS page to see current vacancies.