Degree Apprentice Stories – Matthew Leather
It is relatively common for people to come into quantity surveying from different pathways. Our latest apprentice Matthew Leather reflects on his background, his decision to embark upon a quantity surveying career and his first few months at ALA.
Background
After seven years in retail management and thirteen years within retail in total, 2019 was the year I made the decision to embark on a new career. After much consideration, I identified Quantity Surveying as a career that would both challenge me and suit my existing skillset.
The Degree Apprenticeship Scheme
Fast forward to 2021 and after completing the first year of my degree at the University of Central Lancashire, I was lucky enough to join ALA on a degree apprenticeship, based out of our Warrington office. The apprenticeship is open to all ages, and it will take me four years to complete, after which I will qualify and be supported to complete my APC with the RICS, whilst earning a salary.
Obtaining an opportunity within industry whilst completing my studies was always something I hoped for. Gaining experience at ALA alongside my degree has been beneficial and has allowed me to transfer knowledge learnt in the workplace into my studies and vice-versa.
During my first year at university, I studied modules on construction technology, science and sustainability, management and economics, together with a module of law and procurement. I also gained experience in skills of surveying, drawing construction plans and measurement and quantification. This first year provided me with a solid base of knowledge to take into the workplace and has provided me with a lot of confidence when talking to colleagues and clients.
Working at A. Lamb Associates
In my first couple of months at ALA I have been working on civil engineering and pipeline projects, mainly assisting to build tender packages involving measuring, estimating, taking-off and making price enquiries. I have been blown away by the skills of the team at ALA, from the levels of in-depth technical knowledge to the ability to accurately plan and cost projects. I feel that I am constantly learning and can’t wait to gain more knowledge with future projects.
I have also assisted in project planning and programming; this has given me the opportunity to gain understanding of how all the different disciplines of a project come together. This has also provided exposure to different contracts, particularly NEC, and its nuances.
I know having the right support will be key to making the apprenticeship programme a success and I am very lucky to be surrounded by colleagues with a vast amount of knowledge who are always willing to support me and offer advice when needed. Karen at ALA has set up an apprenticeship support group, where the apprentices, Dan Ashton, Anna Crawford and I meet with our mentors regularly to discuss progress, share best practice and discuss any challenges we are facing. The university also has in place a workplace coordinator for apprentices who holds regular meetings to ensure we remain on track.
Overall, after two months at ALA, I am thoroughly enjoying the opportunity to learn from industry experts in a great friendly environment, which has fully ratified my decision to move into this new career. I would recommend the degree apprenticeship route to anyone, at any age, who is thinking about becoming a Quantity Surveyor.
ALA Associate Director John Naughton says:
We are delighted to have Matthew onboard as part of the ALA team.
He has already proven himself to be highly motivated and capable and I believe he has the right attributes for a very successful quantity surveying career.
I am sure he will continue to go from strength to strength and I look forward to helping support and develop Matthew together with the wider ALA team.
The Warrington office is growing rapidly and we have a lot of opportunities in the pipeline with new and existing clients. I believe our focus on quality, service and the calibre of our people is what really sets us apart. I see Matthew as key member of the ALA team going forward.
Connect with Matthew on LinkedIn.
We are actively recruiting. If you are interested in discussing opportunities to join ALA, please email [email protected] or look at our Current Vacancies.
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