Yorkshire & Humber Institute of Technology student 'dives' into career-enhancing construction course
Posted on 5th December 2024 at 11:54
All our Yorkshire & Humber Institute of Technology students have access to learning opportunities which allow them to build rewarding careers.
And this is no different for Sonny Dalton-Milliken, who recently graduated from York College after studying our Construction Management for England (Site Supervisor) course - previously known as HNC Level 4 Construction and Built Environment.
Sonny, who is a passionate skydiver in his spare time, enrolled on the course to further develop his career as a Project Planner at Portakabin.
Read on to learn more about his education journey.
A passion for progression
Our courses are designed to equip students with the skills they need to enjoy a successful career in their chosen field - whether they’re just starting out or wanting to learn new skills in their established role.
Sonny started his career at Portakabin after the Covid pandemic forced him to return from his seven-year travelling adventure around the world, and his desire to progress within his new role pushed him to study at York College.
He said: “I wanted to study this course as part of a learning and development plan offered to me in my current role. As a highly recognised qualification in the construction industry, I thought it would be very beneficial to enrol on the course to further develop my career.“
Combining theory with practical
Sonny studied his course part-time, completing eight modules over the course of two years. As with all Yorkshire & Humber Institute of Technology courses, he learned through a combination of theory and practical elements in top-notch technical facilities.
He said: ”The Surveying Measuring & Setting Out module was particularly hands-on. We used theodolites to carry out topographic surveys and total stations to stake out coordinates for setting out.
“Also, whilst studying the Construction Information module, we used a mix of AutoCAD and Revit to produce site plans, floor plans, elevations and schedules. This tied in well with my current role, where I collate information from different workstreams to produce bespoke manufacturing and construction drawings.
“The facilities were great and all the equipment required to complete the course was always to hand.”
Learning relevant skills
One of our big focuses is to make sure that all Yorkshire & Humber Institute of Technology courses are directly influenced by real-world demands, and that students graduate with skills that make them industry-ready.
Having already worked in the construction industry, Sonny was able to further his knowledge by completing his course, as well as gain a greater understanding of how the industry works as a whole.
He said: “I really enjoyed the variety the course had to offer. Two modules I found particularly helpful were Construction Practice & Management and Legal & Statutory Responsibilities in Construction.
“We covered the tender process, contracts, company structures, construction law and key health and safety legislation. I believe these modules have put me in good stead for future management and project management roles.
“We also had to deliver presentations throughout the course. Although this is a nerve-racking experience, it’s very valuable when moving into the real world of construction.”
Looking to the future
After finishing his course and graduating with the Institute of Technology Outstanding Achievement Award, Sonny has high hopes for his future as a construction professional at Portakabin.
He said: “I’m looking to seek promotion as a Lead Project Planner, with a potential move into project management at a later date. To help me prepare for future management roles, I’d like to complete a management and leadership course, as well as a PRINCE2 (PRojects IN Controlled Environments) course.”
He’ll also continue to work as a skydive camera flyer at the weekend, where he’s currently done just shy of 900 jumps!
Gateway to excellence in STEM learning
If you’re interested in studying a STEM course and want to pursue your career dreams like Sonny, we can help.
He said: “If you’re considering studying a STEM subject, I’d say go for it! I found my course to be very helpful and relevant to the field I’m currently working in and it’s put me in a good position for future opportunities.
“Even if you don’t end up staying in your chosen field, the course opens up many doors and acts as a stepping stone into further education.”
To find out more about the courses on offer, get in touch via the contact form or visit our education partners’ websites.
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