Since leaving Energy Coast UTC in 2025, Kayla Horrocks has embarked on an exciting career journey as a Degree Apprentice Project Manager with Shepley Engineers, while studying with the University of Cumbria.
Kayla joined Energy Coast UTC in 2021, studying Business, DEC and Applied Science. Drawn to the UTC because of its engineering focus, she quickly made the most of the opportunities available, building lasting friendships and benefiting from the support of staff throughout her studies.
One of the aspects Kayla valued most was the range of experiences offered to students. In particular, she highlighted the opportunities provided by the UTC to gain exposure to industry and even work in different countries, helping students broaden their horizons and explore future career possibilities.
Following her studies, Kayla chose a Degree Apprenticeship, allowing her to combine university learning with practical workplace experience. As part of her apprenticeship at Shepley Engineers, she undertakes a variety of placements across the business to develop her understanding of different functions and departments. She is currently working within the Bids and Proposals Team, where she helps estimate and tender for projects while also managing social value initiatives.
Reflecting on how Energy Coast UTC prepared her for the next stage of her journey, Kayla credits the school with providing mock interviews, valuable industry connections, work experience opportunities and practical guidance on CV and portfolio development. These experiences gave her the confidence to successfully transition into the workplace.
The skills she developed during her time at the UTC continue to support her career today. Confidence, leadership abilities and experience using industry software such as Revit have all proved invaluable as she progresses within the engineering sector. Employer projects, workplace visits and industry engagement also played a key role in helping her build connections and make informed decisions about her future career path.
For students considering joining Energy Coast UTC, Kayla’s advice is simple:
“It’s a great opportunity that prepares you for work and provides a supportive environment.”
When asked to describe her UTC experience in three words, she chose:
Connected. Hands-on. Rewarding.
One of Kayla’s proudest achievements since leaving the UTC has been travelling independently to locations such as York and Leeds for work-related activities, demonstrating the confidence and professionalism she has developed through her apprenticeship.
Kayla’s Story in Her Own Words
“Combining a degree with a job takes real organisation. Thanks to the UTC, I already knew how to handle a professional environment and structure university assignments using Harvard referencing. One year into my degree apprenticeship, those skills are making my transition into project management a major success.”
Looking back, Kayla believes the UTC played a significant role in shaping her future by introducing her to the wide range of apprenticeship opportunities available and giving her hands-on experience across different disciplines. These experiences helped her understand what various career paths could look like and showed her how to achieve her ambitions.
