Darren Wells is not your typical graduate. He began working in the construction industry at the tender age of 17, and has spent over a decade in the industry. However, he was also keen to study, and completed a BTEC, HNC and HND before enrolling on the BSc (Hons) Construction Management degree at LSBU.
“I’ve always believed it is a great idea to get an education behind you, as it lays a strong foundation when looking for jobs and opening up new avenues,” says Darren. “Studying Construction Management was the right choice for me because it gave me a broader insight into the industry rather than focusing in a specific field.”
Lots of my colleagues in my old company had gone to LSBU, and I was told they are one of the best in the UK for construction-related degrees, so that helped me to make up my mind.
Darren Wells
Another key factor for Darren was the fact that he was able to study part-time, carrying on with his job while adding to his skillset. “Holding a high pressured job at the same time as studying for a degree is challenging, but it taught me a lot about how to manage my workload – not just balancing between university and work, but how I tackle tasks and projects in general,” he says. “The programming unit I undertook has also helped me understand time constraints not just onsite but within the supply chain for manufacturing lead times.”
As a result, Darren is more confident at work, and has moved through the ranks to now work as a Design Manager. “It means I monitor and deliver projects from tender through to completion,” he says. “It involves meetings with clients, contractors and subcontractors and comes with pressures – but I love it. I’ve worked on some incredible projects, including hospitals, airports and stadiums.”
Darren is enjoying his role at the moment, but is flexible when it comes to the future – thanks in part to the wide range of skills he acquired at LSBU. “I could be a project director, a façade package manager, or part-owner of a specialist envelope contractor,” he says. “The range of options open to me now is huge.”
Find out more about studying BSc (Hons) Construction Management at LSBU.