Sean Connolly is coming to the end of his years work experience placement with McPhillips as a trainee quantity surveyor and has spent his time on-site working on the Dudley Road Improvement Scheme in Birmingham. We spoke with Sean to find out how he’s developed in the role over the last 12 months…
What work have you done?
“I’ve been assisting the Commercial Department on the applications for payment, I recorded the daily costs for labour, materials and plant. I’ve also been involved in a number of tasks given me by the Onsite Management teams.”
What was the biggest challenge you faced during your time working on a project?
“I think the biggest challenge would be the job on Dudley Road, Birmingham. There were a number of unforeseen events that arose which threw me off course, I was forced to adapt my approach which turned out to be a blessing as I learnt a lot.”
What has been the highlight?
“Working with a professional team. I would say that I’ve learnt more this year than at Uni so far, just by listening to conversations between the client and the team at McPhillips.”
What’s the most valuable skill you have learnt?
“I’ve learnt how to organise my work and get into a routine where I set out my own tasks and work through them.“
How has this placement helped you with your studies?
“I have discovered that a practical sense of learning probably suits me better than an academic setting. Being on site and seeing things happen, gaining real-time experience and not just reading from a text book. It’s been an invaluable experience.”
Would you recommend a work placement with McPhillips to other students?
“One hundred percent. McPhillips have really looked after me, they’ve always shown patience when I have maybe asked questions that they might find a bit silly. I’ve learnt so much and can’t thank McPhillips enough.”
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