At Make Consulting, we believe that investing in people is one of the most important things we can do. There is no better example of this than Ethan’s journey.
In September 2018, Ethan joined Make Consulting straight from school. Taking on an apprentice straight from school brings opportunities as well as responsibilities. One of the moments that has stayed with us from Ethan’s first year at Make was organising a company social event and having to check with both the venue and his parents that he could attend because he was only 16. Looking back now, it’s a simple reminder of just how young he was when he first joined us.
Today, eight years later, Ethan has graduated with a 2:1 BSc (Hons) in Building Surveying and has developed into a confident Assistant Building Surveyor. Seeing that transformation has been incredibly rewarding and reinforces why we continue to invest in apprenticeships and the development of future talent.
Building a Career from the Ground Up
Ethan’s journey didn’t follow the traditional university route. Instead, he chose to earn while he learned, developing his practical skills alongside his academic studies.
Starting with a Level 3 qualification in Construction and the Built Environment at West Nottinghamshire College, Ethan also successfully resat his English GCSE before progressing to an HNC and eventually completing his Building Surveying degree apprenticeship.
Reflecting on why he chose an apprenticeship, Ethan said:
“I wanted the opportunity to earn whilst learning with the support of industry professionals. I also didn’t want to get into debt attending university. My learning style is much more hands-on, so learning on the job has definitely worked better for me.”
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Over the past eight years, Ethan has worked alongside surveyors at every stage of their careers, gaining experience across a wide range of projects and sectors.
From researching lease surveys and producing drawings to carrying out site inspections, no two days are ever the same.
“The best thing about being an apprentice is being able to gain qualifications while also gaining the work experience that’s so important in this industry.”
That practical experience has helped Ethan discover his strengths, build confidence and develop into a valued member of our Building Surveying team.
Developing Through Support
Throughout his apprenticeship, Ethan has been supported by colleagues across the business, particularly his workplace mentor, Dan Ireland.
“Dan has been invaluable. He’s put so much time and effort into my development, but that also goes for everyone I’ve worked alongside at Make. They’ve all been so willing to support and help me get the opportunities I need to succeed.”
Alongside day-to-day mentoring, Make has supported Ethan through:
- Funding his qualifications.
- Dedicated university study time.
- Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
- Individual mentoring and career guidance.
- Opportunities to work across a diverse range of projects.
Looking Ahead
One of Ethan’s proudest achievements has been contributing to projects within the Blue Light sector, alongside successfully completing his degree.
His journey doesn’t stop here.
One of Ethan’s proudest achievements has been contributing to projects within the Blue Light sector, alongside successfully completing his degree.
Investing in the Future
Ethan’s story demonstrates what can be achieved when determination is matched with opportunity and support.
By combining academic learning with real project experience, apprenticeships provide an excellent pathway into the construction industry, enabling people to build rewarding careers while making meaningful contributions from day one.
We’re incredibly proud of everything Ethan has achieved over the past eight years and look forward to supporting him through the next stage of his professional journey.
When Ethan joined us in 2018, we saw potential in a young person just starting out. Today, we see a graduate, a respected colleague and someone with an exciting future ahead of him. We couldn’t be prouder of everything he has achieved, and we look forward to supporting him as he works towards becoming a Chartered Building Surveyor.
Congratulations, Ethan, on graduating with a 2:1 in Building Surveying. This is a fantastic achievement and one that everyone at Make Consulting is proud to celebrate.