Nadia Iqbal National Apprenticeship Week 2024

As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2024, we speak to Nadia Iqbal, Apprentice Quantity Surveyor. Nadia shares her experiences as an apprentice whilst working towards completing her Chartered Surveyor Degree Apprenticeship course at the University of Wolverhampton.

Choosing My Apprenticeship and My Roles

I always had aspirations to do an apprenticeship due to the practicality and hands-on nature of them. Despite not originally considering a career in the construction industry, I came across surveying and became interested in the role.

I feel as if the role of an Apprentice Surveyor perfectly aligns with my skills and characteristics, such as being confident and an effective communicator. These are a necessity when training to be a fully qualified Surveyor, which allows me to excel and thrive. Other aspects of the role which interested me were dealing with contractual matters, legal aspects, managing projects, and seeing a project through from start to finish, which I find rewarding. My role entails me to act as an Employer’s Agent as well as a Surveyor, which I have found very beneficial in my development and progress.

Being an Apprentice at calfordseaden

I joined calfordseaden in October 2023 and was instantly aware of the supportive and welcoming environment here. In a world of hybrid working, the days in the office play a significant role in my development. The fantastic team in the Birmingham office make the days in the office valuable and enjoyable.

Colleagues have assisted me in my studies, which I am thankful for. For example, one of my assignments was based around construction technology, and a Chartered Surveyor went through the assignment brief with me, which helped me gain a better understanding of the subject area, and provided me with useful guidance and support.

Aims and Advice

My immediate aim for my future in the construction industry is to enhance my skills and to complete my apprenticeship here at calfordseaden and gain chartership status. I have long-term ambitions to travel to other countries to work as a Surveyor and make an impact in the field of Surveying. Starting an apprenticeship may seem daunting and challenging, especially balancing work and study, but I would advise people to establish a routine and structure as it can lead to a successful and rewarding career.