Name: Harry Collins
Title: Management trainee at Dandara
What I do: I am currently the first year into a management trainee scheme, rotating through several departments within the business, including commercial, technical, sales, finance, land, customer care, and construction (spending one month in each). Its comprehensive training programme gives apprentices hands-on experience across various disciplines, helping them discover their true passion.
Why I got into the industry: I had an initial interest in property, specifically quantity surveying. By combining working four days a week for Dandara with studying one day a week at the University College of Estate Management in Reading, I will be able to gain a BSc (Hons) in quantity surveying.
How I did it: I followed a traditional educational route, achieving my GCSEs and earning an A-level in geography. I then decided to pursue a career in construction, but I wanted a path that combined practical experience with a qualification, which led me to Dandara.
My first big break: Gaining hands-on experience on smaller-scale construction projects. The range of experience and the opportunity to fully immerse myself in different departments have given me a much clearer understanding of the housebuilding industry.
My inspiration(s): It has to be my parents. I am very fortunate to have such a supportive family.
The biggest challenge I’ve encountered to date: Not always knowing the full background of a site or project during meetings and discussions, something I know I will get used to as I progress through the management trainee scheme.
My proudest moment to date: Contributing to the differing departments and helping where possible. There is so much to get stuck into, develop your knowledge on and improve core skills.
The biggest misconception people have about the property industry: I think there’s a misconception that there are limited roles available apart from the typical trades including plumbers and electricians. The construction industry offers an impressive range of careers beyond traditional roles.
My biggest bugbear about the industry/the one thing I would change about the industry: I would say the same as above, especially regarding construction. I think more needs to be done in schools to educate the next generation about careers in property and construction.
Where I’d like to be in five years’ time career-wise: Working towards becoming a fully qualified quantity surveyor.
Who I’d invite, living or dead, to a dinner party: Mick Harford, who, in my eyes, is a Luton Town FC legend.
What I do in my downtime: Typically, you’ll find me either playing or watching football.
The job I’d be doing if I was not doing this: Most likely something sports related.
My advice for someone just starting out: Show a willingness to learn and a hard-working attitude. I would 100% recommend an apprenticeship to anyone, it allows you to develop quickly and gain valuable experience early on.
My motto/mantra: Work hard, be organised, and prepare fully for any opportunities that come your way.
The 10-14 February 2025 is National Apprenticeship Week. Click here to find out more details about the initiative.
