It’s National Apprenticeship Week, and the next generation of our industry’s leaders provides the backdrop for this episode of Highways Voices, which focuses on the growing role apprenticeships can play in solving the highways and transport sector’s ongoing skills shortages.
Today, host Paul Hutton speaks with Ben Harrison, an apprentice data scientist at National Highways, whose career path is far from traditional – he moved from being a trainee detective with West Yorkshire Police into his current technology-focused position shaping the future of our strategic road network.
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The conversation highlights how apprenticeships are no longer just an option for school leavers, but a practical route for career changers seeking to retrain without stepping away from full-time employment.
Ben Harrison reflects on how, at 18, he lacked awareness of the opportunities available, noting that most of his peers automatically followed the university route, and his hindsight-driven view gives the discussion a relatable edge, particularly for younger listeners facing similar crossroads today.
Crucially, the podcast also provides an accessible insight into what data science looks like inside National Highways. Harrison describes a working life split between structured learning and real-world project delivery, including involvement in the development of a customer contact chatbot now live on the organisation’s website. The episode paints a picture of apprentices contributing immediately, not in minor support roles, but in meaningful operational work tied directly to public-facing services.
Alongside the technical discussion, there is a clear emphasis on personal development and organisational culture. Our guest speaks positively about the support offered from colleagues, senior leadership, and delivery partners, and describes the level of trust placed in apprentices as a major benefit. He also acknowledges the pressures of balancing study commitments with live project deadlines, offering a realistic account of the challenges involved in learning on the job.
The episode ultimately positions apprenticeships as a strategic tool for the highways sector, not just a training scheme. With references to AI sustainability initiatives and future-focused career progression, the discussion frames early talent development as essential to building long-term leadership and technical capability. If you’re interested in skills policy or workforce planning (and you should be!), the podcast delivers a timely and grounded example of how industry recruitment is moving on, plus it gives you an insight into the practical use of AI in transport infrastructure.
Highways Voices is brought to you with our partners the Transport Technology Forum, LCRIG, ADEPT and ITS UK.
(Picture – National Highways)
