Lancashire-based Collinson Construction has appointed its first apprentice as it invests in the skills and training needed to grow and diversify the business.
The firm has taken on 18-year-old Edward Clegg as an apprentice trainee quantity surveyor.
Edward, who lives on his family’s farm in Pilling, first impressed the team at Collinson when he undertook a work placement last summer and has now become a permanent member of the team.
As part of the apprenticeship, Edward is studying for a quantity surveying degree at the University of Central Lancashire.
The five-year degree programme will see Edward gain practical, on-the-job experience alongside the skilled and knowledgeable team at Collinson Construction, while attending lectures at UCLan once a week.
As part of the role, Edward will source prices for plant, materials and subcontractors for Collinson’s modular division’s exciting pipeline of projects utilising specialist offsite construction techniques. He’ll also spend time completing visits to the firm’s live sites and building relationships with new suppliers.
Commenting on his new position, Edward said: “I knew I wanted to pursue a career in construction from an early age, and after joining Collinson’s quantity surveying team on a site at St John’s Marlborough last year, I decided this was the route for me to take.
“Between my studies and gaining first-hand real-world experience, I’m looking forward to the next five years and seeing how it will set me up for a successful career in construction.”
Edward has built up his work experience in construction since leaving school and has held jobs including working alongside a builder and joiner, as well as gaining experience at a horsebox manufacturer for three years, where he honed his fabrication and joinery skills.
Edward continued: “I’m loving my time at Collinson so far and have learnt so much already. The projects I’m working on are really varied and stimulating, and I’m particularly enjoying getting involved in schemes being delivered through modular methods of construction. Seeing these projects being brought to life at Collinson’s own factory in Lancashire is fascinating.”
Robert Duxbury, managing director of Collinson Construction, added: “Investing in our people and upskilling our workforce is big priority for us. This apprenticeship programme is a great opportunity to not only invest in young peoples’ futures, but also help plug the skills gap in the construction industry.
“Edward made a great impression when he joined us for a work placement during his A-Level studies last year. He’s ambitious, engaging and enthusiastic to learn the trade, so we’re delighted to have him on board.
“Edward will be learning all the expertise required to set him up for a successful career in quantity surveying, while also gaining knowledge in modular construction – which is a big growth area for us.”
