Building a career in Building Services Engineering at LSBU
Studying Building Services Engineering HNC at LSBU helped Skyler develop the technical knowledge and professional confidence needed to progress within the industry. Alongside gaining Engineering Technician registration and becoming a Licentiate member of CIBSE, the course provided valuable practical experience, industry connections, and the opportunity to progress to bachelor’s level study.
I hoped the course would support my progression to bachelor's level study, which I am now continuing at London South Bank University.
What made you choose the course?
I chose the HNC Building Services Engineering course because it offered a strong balance between technical knowledge and practical industry application. I wanted to build a solid understanding of building services engineering while supporting my progression within the industry.
The course helped me develop professionally through industry networks such as Women in Building Services Engineering (WiBSE) and CIBSE YEN. It also enabled me to achieve professional registration as an Engineering Technician with the Engineering Council and become a Licentiate member of CIBSE.
I also hoped the course would support progression to bachelor’s level study, which I am now continuing at London South Bank University. During this time, I was proud to be named runner up for CIBSE Apprentice of the Year 2024 as the only female shortlisted in my category.
Describe a key project or experience that really prepared you for working in the industry.
Studying Fundamentals of Building Services Engineering in first year and Heating and Ventilation in second year gave me a strong understanding of how building services systems work together in real projects. These modules also helped me understand the different RIBA design stages and what is required at each stage.
The course helped me move beyond theory and think more practically about how building services contribute to safety, comfort, efficiency, and sustainability. This was especially valuable as I could apply these principles directly within my apprenticeship role.
The HNC helped me develop key industry skills including technical understanding, problem solving, communication and professional awareness.
How did studying the HNC help you develop the skills employers are looking for?
The HNC helped me develop key industry skills including technical understanding, problem-solving, communication, and professional awareness. It improved my ability to apply engineering principles to real-world situations and increased my confidence in working with others and presenting ideas.
Networking opportunities through groups such as WiBSE and CIBSE YEN also strengthened my professional communication skills and broadened my understanding of the wider industry.
What has your career journey looked like since graduating, and how did the course support you in getting there?
Since graduating, my journey has continued to progress both professionally and academically. The HNC gave me the technical foundation and confidence to take the next steps in my career, including gaining professional registration as an Engineering Technician and becoming a Licentiate member of CIBSE.
The course also encouraged me to continue developing within the industry and progress further in building services engineering through bachelor’s level study.
My advice would be to stay curious and continue learning beyond the classroom.
What advice would you give to someone considering studying Building Services Engineering at LSBU?
My advice would be to fully engage with every aspect of the course, both academically and professionally. Take advantage of the practical learning, industry networking opportunities, and support from lecturers, as these can make a real difference to your confidence and career development.
I would also encourage students to stay curious and continue learning beyond the classroom. Speaking to industry professionals and understanding how theory connects to real projects will help you get the most out of the course and open doors for your future career.