Georgia's Story - Apprentice and Award Winning TEDx Speaker
Georgia also addresses the common misconceptions of apprenticeships and why this was the right journey for her and her career.
Breaking the Mold: Georgia Shaw’s Apprenticeship Journey
National Apprenticeship Week is a time to celebrate the impact and value of apprenticeships. For me, it’s also an opportunity to reflect on my own journey—one that wasn’t necessarily traditional, but was absolutely the right path. Everyone’s career story is different, and that’s the beauty of apprenticeships: they provide an alternative route to success, one that aligns with individual strengths, aspirations, and learning styles.
Choosing an Apprenticeship: A Bold Decision
When I was at school university was pitched as the superior option, especially with my predicted A-level grades, and the fact that I was labelled as ‘academic’. But deep down, I knew I wanted something different—something that combined learning with real-world experience. I had a passion for psychology, but I couldn’t see myself in a psychology based career like a researcher or therapist . My dad challenged me to explain to him how going to University was going to add value to my life and help kickstart my career! It was when I realised I couldn’t actually see how it would, that I thought I would prefer to develop my skills in a hands-on fashion. That’s when I made the decision that an apprenticeship was the way forward for me.
At school, choosing an apprenticeship wasn’t easy. There was a stigma that suggested apprenticeships were a “lesser” route, or only suited for vocational trades. But I saw the potential: the opportunity to earn while I learned, gain practical experience, and build a professional network from day one.
Overcoming Barriers & Challenges
One of the biggest challenges I faced was perception. It’s a common misconception that people think that without a traditional university degree, career progression could be limited. With so many peers who were following more conventional routes, at first I was apprehensive.
But as I progressed, those doubts faded. I saw firsthand how my apprenticeship was giving me real skills in project management, exposure to industry leaders, and the ability to make a real impact with a prestigious client. It wasn’t just about learning theories—it was about applying them in real-time. I had to prove myself, work hard, and push past outdated stereotypes. And in doing so, I gained confidence in my own path.
Achievements & Growth
Fast forward to today, and my apprenticeship has opened doors I never imagined. I’ve won prestigious awards, (WeAreTheCity’s Rising Star in digital (2023), and TechWomen100 Award (2025)) taken on leadership roles, delivered a TEDx Talk on apprenticeships, mentored others, and chaired several networks and committees. Importantly, I achieved my Bachelors degree in Project Management, so I have still achieved the same qualification as my peers who went to University through the traditional route, it just took a little longer.
I’ve also progressed in my career, from a Project Manager, to Client Partner type roles while pursuing a Master’s in Management and Leadership. I have even recently made the jump to a new role at a major technology company which will give me even more skills and experiences that I need to shape my career.
Why This Journey Was Right for Me
There is no single “right” way to build a career. University works for many, but for others, an apprenticeship is the perfect blend of learning, experience, and opportunity. I always like to highlight that different people need different conditions to be successful, so there is no ‘better’ or ‘worse route – it’s entirely subjective! For me, it was about making an impact early, gaining real-world exposure, and continually challenging myself in new ways. It allowed me to grow at a pace that suited me, without the burden of student debt, enabling me to access the property ladder and with the added advantage of being surrounded by industry professionals from the start.
My Message to Others
If you’re considering an apprenticeship—or even if you’re unsure about your next step—know that your path is yours to create. Apprenticeships are a powerful route to success, and they can take you further than you ever imagined. Don’t be afraid to challenge expectations, break barriers, and carve out a journey that truly works for you.
National Apprenticeship Week is a celebration of all the different ways people achieve their goals. My apprenticeship was my launchpad, and for anyone out there wondering if it could be theirs too—take the leap. You might just surprise yourself.