Name: Chloe Smith
Title: Apprentice building surveyor at Gateley Smithers Purslow
What I do: I started my building surveying apprenticeship in September 2024, and my role currently involves a combination of shadowing colleagues on-site and assisting with report and schedule writing. As I have gained more experience, I am able to undertake my own independent site visits and chair progress meetings. The services we provide are for a mixture of insurance, public sector and private clients, which allows exposure to a wide variety of surveys – from fire and flood damage to dilapidations.
Why I got into the property industry: I have always been interested in the property industry and, when searching for post-A Level opportunities, came across building surveying as a potential career. Building surveying is a versatile role and I found the balance of site and office-based working very appealing. There are also plenty of areas within the role to specialise in once you find your particular interest, such as heritage and conservation work.
How I did it: I quickly decided that attending university full-time wasn’t the path I wanted to take. This led me to research building surveying degree apprenticeships, and I soon settled on applying for this route. My prior experience in the hospitality industry has helped me to gain valuable people skills, as well as develop adaptability, both of which are extremely beneficial within my client-facing building surveying role.
My first proper job: Before I began my building surveying apprenticeship, I was working as a waitress at my local pub. This helped me develop essential people skills and exposed me to working under pressure. Every shift would require you to adapt to the customer’s individual requirements to give them the best service experience.
My first big break: My first big break within the industry was being shortlisted for an award. It was really nice to receive recognition from my consultancy for the work I undertake as an apprentice, and felt it was a milestone moment in my apprenticeship so far.
My inspiration(s): My family are my biggest inspiration. They have always worked hard to give my siblings and me a great life, and I want to emulate their dedication.
The biggest challenge I’ve encountered to date: My biggest challenge to date was when I first started my apprenticeship. It was in an industry I knew nothing about, and I have therefore had to learn everything from the start. It has been a challenge to get used to the increased workloads and managing my time and this would have not been possible without the support of my colleagues, who have all offered their guidance and knowledge during my journey.
My greatest achievement/proudest moment to date: Winning ‘Young Apprentice of the Year’ at Insider’s Midlands Young Professionals Awards 2025. It was great to have this recognition for the work I have been undertaking in the first year of my apprenticeship. It was a real shock to be announced as the winner, but I was nonetheless proud of myself for achieving it.
The biggest misconception people have about the property industry: There is a widely held perception that the industry consists only of builders and other members of the trade. There are a lot more roles behind the scenes that go into any development. For example, before researching apprenticeships, I had never heard of surveying. Discovering this career has opened up a lot of opportunities for me and increased my awareness of how broad the industry really is.
My biggest bugbear about the industry/the one thing I would change about the industry: I think the industry could improve the amount of respect shown towards young professionals and the contributions that they make. There has been a notable industry-wide improvement, but it is still not unheard of for their presence or opinions at meetings to be overlooked as a result of their junior level/experience. I am lucky that, within my consultancy, I have always been encouraged to ask questions and trusted to do my role.
Why I’m so passionate about DE&I: DE&I is always important but especially in the construction industry. It’s really positive to see more women taking roles within an industry that has, historically, been male dominated. I think it’s great to see more females gaining recognition for their valuable contributions. More so, it is especially brilliant to see women more commonly placed in senior roles, which shows positive changes within the industry.
Why I’m so passionate about ESG: In a world where climate change is getting worse and not better, it is vital that the construction and property sector implements positive changes to help tackle this. I’m glad to be part of a company whose ‘Positive Planet Certified – Silver Award’ reflects its commitment to operating sustainably, alongside supporting local communities through its responsible business initiatives. It’s great to have your values align in being a force for good in the industry.
Where I’d like to be in five years’ time career-wise: In five years’ time, I would like to have completed my building surveying apprenticeship degree, as well as my Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) to gain chartered status.
Who I’d invite, living or dead, to a dinner party: King Charles I. He was an interesting character, and I’d love to listen to his perspective during the turbulent Civil War period. He was committed to his belief in his right to be King and, whilst it did lead to destruction, I have always found his standpoint impressive.
What I do in my downtime: Work life balance is extremely important and so, when I’m not working or studying, I like to spend my time with friends and family. I also like to be outdoors in the countryside on walks, as I find the fresh air calming.
The job I’d be doing if I was not doing this: Working towards travelling around Europe. There are so many beautiful places that are rich in history and culture right on our doorstep!
My advice for someone just starting out: Be inquisitive, request feedback, seek advice. Admitting when you need help with anything will always go further than blindly trying.
My motto/mantra: Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
The 9-15 February 2025 is National Apprenticeship Week. Click here to find out more details about the initiative.
