Name: Chloe Lopez
Job title: ASPIRE graduate at Barratt David Wilson Southern Counties. I am training to become an assistant trainee quantity surveyor.
What I do: The ASPIRE graduate programme presents the opportunity to complete eight-week rotations with every department. Commercial is my ‘home department’ where I will train to become a quantity surveyor, however, I am currently working with the land and planning team. I will also be participating in the Prince’s Trust Million Makers Project with the rest of the graduate cohort where we will be organising and budgeting a series of fundraising initiatives.
Why I got into the property industry: I’ve always wanted to work in the construction industry for the fast-paced environment and the sense of achievement when a build is complete. I think the industry is particularly inspiring due to the opportunities it presents and also its prominence in the current housing landscape.
How I did it: I graduated from the University of Surrey in 2023 with a business management degree, achieving first class honours. The ASPIRE scheme attracts around 4,000 applicants each year and I was extremely proud to be one of the 13 selected.
My first proper job: This job is my first ‘proper’ job, and I am absolutely loving it! I have met so many new people internally and externally, such as subcontractors and graduates from other housebuilders. The rotations have been great for networking. For example, during my time with the land team, I had the opportunity to spend time in London meeting land agents and surveyors who are all at varying stages of their careers. This is a great chance to make connections and will inevitably be of great use in the future.
The biggest challenge you have encountered to date: Applying for and securing a job after university. There is so much uncertainty when you know you have exams, a job to find, a personal life to live and no idea where you will be in a few months’ time. I am so fortunate that the ASPIRE programme was my first and only application, but I didn’t want to overwhelm myself by applying for lots and had set my heart on this scheme. I found that leaving the structure of university behind was the biggest and most challenging step as you just don’t know what to expect – especially when I had no previous office experience. But I haven’t looked back and love working life.
My greatest achievement/proudest moment to date: Within my first five months at BDW Southern Counties, I was involved with the launch of David Wilson Homes’ newest development in Finchampstead, Finchwood Park. Contributing to the development and seeing the final sales arena brought to life was incredible.
The biggest misconception people have about the property industry: There is still a misconception that the industry is entirely male-dominated. Since joining the industry, I have met so many women who are in key roles across the business and this is something that Barratt is dedicated to supporting. If you are a woman interested in a career in construction, there are a range of positions that are accessible and inclusive of everyone.
Where I’d like to be in five years’ time career-wise: The goal moving forwards is to be well-embedded within a site of my own and I would love to see myself in a managerial position within the commercial team.
What I do in my downtime: My downtime is spent with horses, particularly doing dressage, which is my time to relax. I have had horses since I was five, and it is something that I can’t ever see myself living without. I also love walking my dog – especially in the summer when I am not soaked through!
My advice for someone just starting out: Go for it! Never underestimate your ability as there is something for everyone and you will find a role that you love. It can be daunting when you leave education and you feel like you have no confirmed path. Reaching out to mentors at school, college or university is helpful when creating your CV as they know your abilities well and may also be able to give you an idea of careers that best suit your personality.
This week (3-9 March 2024) is Women in Construction Week, which celebrates and promotes the role of women in the construction industry. This year’s theme, ‘Keys to the Future’, celebrates the strength and knowledge of women and the vital role they play in shaping the future of the construction industry. To find out more about the initiative visit www.wicweek.org
