We spoke with Ade Olayera who recently completed his Level 7 National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) Diploma in Construction Senior Management, about his qualification and career in construction.
Background:
Ade began his career in the house-building industry over a decade ago. He has mirrored his advancement through different management roles in his progression through qualification levels.
Ade’s first role was working as a Trainee Assistant Site Manager during which time he completed a Level 4 NVQ. He then went on to become a fully-fledged Site manager and progressed to a Level 6 NVQ, before moving on to his most recent Level 7 qualification.
Why choose an NVQ?
NHBC offers NVQs from Levels 3 to 7 in a range of subjects including construction site management, site inspection and contract operations.
An NVQ is a practical way to gain a nationally recognised qualification based on competence in role. Through the work you undertake as part of your day-to-day job it enables you to evidence your work-based learning and validates your practical skills, increasing your employability and potential opportunities for career progression.
Ade explained “An NVQ was the right option for me it’s a good way of showing the level of experience you have within the construction industry. All my assessors have been very experienced construction professionals with a great deal of knowledge about the industry which helped me realise how much knowledge I had gained over the years. I was also able to work at a pace that suited my needs and that allowed me to balance the assessments alongside my regular work activities.”
Building a career in construction:
We asked Ade about his experience of NVQ qualifications and if he would advise others to join the construction industry.
Ade said “The NVQ Level 7 prompts you to take a step back and consider how major factors can shape a project, whether that’s current building regulations, changes to government policies or changes in the economy. Being able to move through the different levels of NVQs helps reflect your change in roles, how much knowledge you have and show how your skills have developed throughout your career.”
“The construction industry can be very rewarding. Although it may seem daunting for a newcomer, there are so many different roles available that there really is something that can play to everyone’s strengths. If someone coming into the sector applies themselves, then there will always be opportunities available.”
Looking ahead:
Having achieved his Level 7 NVQ, the equivalent of a master’s degree, Ade hopes to achieve chartered construction manager status with the CIOB and has his sights set on more senior roles within construction management taking on further responsibilities for the lifecycle of a project.
Dee Kumari, Future Talent Partner at Vistry Group said “It is wonderful to see Ade building a career in construction and achieving his Level 7 NVQ. The house-building industry is full of opportunities and Ade is a great example of making the most of the chance to evidence the knowledge and skills he’s learned through an NVQ. At Vistry Group we’re proud to support people and help them build rewarding careers.”
NHBC is committed to raising standards in house building by championing high-quality homes and are proud to offer qualifications that meet the needs of house builders and support career progression.
