From LSBU student to Chartered Architectural Technologist: Sandeep’s journey to running his own practice
When Architectural Technology BSc (Hons) graduate Sandeep Saddal returned to LSBU recently, he brought with him more than a decade of industry experience, chartered status – and the story of how he launched his own architectural practice. His talk, delivered as part of a CIAT (Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists) session, gave final-year students a realistic, inspiring look at what comes next after university.
Sharing the real pathway from student to Chartered Architectural Technologist
My session focused on one thing: demystifying the journey from studying to becoming chartered and running a successful practice. Speaking to full-time and part-time final-year students, I built the talk around “my journey” – from mature part-time student at LSBU to MCIAT and Director of SSK Architects.
Using live project examples, I broke down what an Architectural Technologist really does day-to-day, showing the breadth of work the profession covers: from high-end residential design to warehouses and shopfronts. Alongside this, I offered practical career guidance, networking advice, and insights into CIAT’s regional opportunities.
From LSBU lecture theatres to chartered status
I began my journey while studying part-time over five years, balancing my degree with a role at a small residential architecture firm. This meant my assignments and professional projects constantly informed one another.
After graduating, I built experience across the full lifecycle of architectural projects: from feasibility and planning to building regulations and on-site stages. Alongside hands-on experience, I became actively involved with CIAT’s Greater London Region, which supported my progression through the professional requirements needed to achieve MCIAT chartered status.
LSBU provided a strong technicial foundation, advanced software skills, and a course shaped by practice-based lecturers
Starting a business: a natural next step
Launching my own practice didn’t happen overnight, but it also didn’t feel like a leap into the unknown.
Working while studying gave me early exposure to real clients, local authorities, consultants and project demands, helping me to develop the confidence and skillset needed to lead projects independently.
LSBU provided a strong technical foundation, advanced software skills, and a course shaped by practice-based lecturers. This combination helped me move smoothly into a CIAT Chartered Practice before launching SSK Architects, built on both professional rigour and practical know-how.
LSBU gave me confidence across every project stage: from feasibility and surveying to planning, building regulations and pre-construction work.
Three standout skills LSBU helped me build
Here are the skills that have shaped my career so far:
- Technical detailing expertise – understanding build-ups, external envelopes, green roofs and more, and turning this knowledge into clear construction information for contractors.
- Confidence across every project stage – from feasibility and surveying to planning, building regs and pre-construction work, enabling me to deliver projects from concept right through to site.
- Versatile software knowledge – going beyond CAD to include 3D modelling, rendering and presentation tools, making it easier to collaborate across different offices and adapt to new, AI-driven workflows.
My advice for future Architectural Technologists
- Work while you study if you can – even part-time. The combination of university learning and live projects helps you build a strong, authentic portfolio.
- Get involved with CIAT early – especially local regional groups. It’s one of the best ways to access mentoring, networking and insights into how chartered practices operate.
- Develop your software and communication skills – because being adaptable with tools and confident when talking to clients and consultants is just as important as technical design.