Having an interest in the built environment growing up and wanting to study engineering from an early age made the decision to venture into the construction industry an easy one. Although the interest in the built environment was there, one of the key influences was the ability to be involved in a project and see the end product come to fruition, and at the end, look back and say “I was part of that”.

Estimating & Lindfield Village

The most enjoyable part has been working with and learning from a wide array of individuals who are experts at what they do. I have learned how to wear different hats in different roles as well as how to work and communicate with a variety of people. I am now confident in liaising with anyone ranging from authorities, consultants, through to subcontractors, both in a commercial, site management or design coordination capacity.

We all face the issue of completing tasks when required and managing our workload to ensure we don’t get bogged down. The construction industry is a highly demanding industry and requires early starts, late finishes and working weekends, of which new starters will adapt to with ease, however Icon have means in place to ensure that a healthy work life balance is achieved. The implementation of an internal social club and additional 2 days to use as “work life balance days” are examples of Icon’s commitment to their understanding of work life balance.

Since joining Icon in 2016, the cadet programme has given me exposure to all stages of the construction process, which has allowed me to understand how a project can change from a conceptual idea, through design development and finally into a tangible product. I have been involved in pre-construction and estimating, procurement and trade-letting and site coordination, and have witnessed the importance each of these key activities play in the entire process.

Depending on the type and length of project you are on, a project team would spend months or years together which quiet literally makes it feel like you see your team more than your family. However, when you have a team that is determined to deliver a project on time and of high quality, it makes the environment a positive and productive space making it enjoyable and motivating to arrive to work every day.

There are a variety of reasons that make me proud to work at Icon.  One of the main reasons is the focus and determination that is driven into the Icon culture to deliver a high-quality project for all stakeholders including the client and the end users. Being directly involved in the handover stage of a project, having owners appreciate the works and quality product that have been completed makes all the long hours and hard work worth it.

If I was to give any new graduates or cadets advice before joining the team it would be to take everything in your stride, ask questions, try and get involved as much as you can to gain exposure. There are individuals available in this industry who are willing to teach and guide you.

Most of my free time is spent either relaxing with mates or spending time with family and pets. I like to do things that take my mind of work and refresh after a busy day or week.