Discovering my Passion
When I was 16, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do. I knew sitting in a classroom all day wasn’t for me—I learned best by doing, working with a team, and seeing ideas come to reality. That’s why my first construction job on a homesite in Kentucky changed everything. While my mates spent their summer serving food and working evenings and weekends, I worked outside, enjoying the outdoors, and every evening and weekend free. To this day, I remember the smell of the timber, the satisfaction of seeing walls go up, and the teamwork on-site—it all just clicked. I wasn’t stuck at a desk. I was creating something real, something that mattered.
Learning by Doing
That experience set me on a path I hadn’t expected. I took an architectural drawing class (yes, with pencils, not a computer!) in high school, and for the first time, learning felt exciting. I could see how designs on paper became actual buildings. That led me to study construction management, where I got hands-on experience with everything from planning projects to using the latest technology to solve problems in the field.
One of the things I love most about construction is that it’s constantly evolving. Every project is different—new locations, designs, and challenges to figure out. I’ve worked on massive housing developments in big cities and small, custom-built homes in quiet towns. I’ve used power tools, drone mapping, and 3D modelling software to plan and build smarter. Some days, I was outside, hands-on, making things happen. Other days, I worked with engineers, designers, and tradespeople to bring an idea to life.
Embracing Teamwork
And the people—this job is all about the people. I knew early on that I didn’t want to work alone at a desk all day. In construction, I had a choice. I could take on more independent roles, where I was responsible for everything on my own, or be part of something bigger, working with teams in a fast-paced, lively environment. I chose the second option because I thrive on collaboration—problem-solving with others, learning from different perspectives, and making things happen together.
From Builder to Educator
After years in the field, my passion for construction evolved into something new—teaching the next generation of builders and problem-solvers. My experience on-site gave me insights that I wanted to share, helping students bridge the gap between theory and practice. Today, as a professor, I bring real-world experience into the classroom, showing how hands-on learning, teamwork, and adaptability are key to success in the industry.
I get it if you struggle with the idea of a traditional office job or sitting through years of lectures. Construction might be the career you never considered but could end up loving. Whether you like working with your hands, using new technology, leading projects, or just being in a job that’s always changing, this industry has a place for you.
At NMITE, we believe in learning by doing, just like I did. If you're curious about a career in construction or engineering, explore our programs and discover how hands-on education can help you build your future.
Find out more about the NMITE difference.
Did you know? Fully funded places are now available on our Construction Management degree. With our new AWE Scholarship, you'll have your degree fully funded (£9,2750 per year) and receive £5000 in cost-of living support per year. Find out more.
