Amy Smith,
Aged 28

Qualifications
BTEC in Construction, BSc (Hons) in Building, Construction and Management.

What do you do day-to-day?
My role changes day-to-day. I can be full-time in the office working on tenders, full-time based on site or a mixture of both. As a planner I am responsible for compliling our tender bids. Once I win a job, I maintain the responsibility over the contract programme. Depending on the size of the project this can mean a full-time presence on site or visiting as required. I produce detailed progress reports that will be presented internally and monthly to the client.

What encouraged you to join the construction industry?
My technical design teacher at school encouraged me to pursue a career in construction. This was based on my interest in design and keenness to work outdoors. Having investigated the required qualifications for the construction industry I chose to do a more practically based qualification over A-levels. My BTec was great fun, I learnt bricklaying, welding, painting and decorating and carpentry along with technology and science modules.

Why did you choose this career?
Again, it was the support of a lecturer that persuaded me to try and get into university. When my application was accepted without an interview I decided it was too good an opportunity to miss - and it was!