Many Solomons team members started off in different careers to their current roles as Quantity Surveyors. And we’re proud of the fact that they’re not only flourishing but playing a hugely positive role in our clients’ work, the company’s continued growth and our efforts to bring about change for the better across the construction industry.

Promoted to Project Quantity Surveyor this summer, Alex Smith tells us about his career journey and shares top tips with others thinking of following in his footsteps.

Tell us about your early career

I started off as a Geologist before looking for a change and becoming an Estimator, which was right up my street. Unfortunately, I was let go during the Coronavirus pandemic and started looking for jobs in my native Liverpool.

A lot of people were asking for a Quantity Surveying degree, so I used the opportunity to enrol on a Quantity Surveying Masters degree at Liverpool John Moores University and ended up coming away with a distinction, which I’m really proud of.

How did you end up at Solomons and how have you found it?

About three quarters of the way through the degree I got offered a role at Solomons. The overriding feeling working here is of friendliness and inclusion. The support network here feels like a huge web and the people I’m surrounded by are here to help encourage me and push me forward.

I’m well on the path to achieving my goals and feel like I’m making strong progress. My aims are to get Chartered in the next five years, become a Senior Quantity Surveyor and hopefully manage a team.

What advice to you have for anyone thinking of following in your footsteps and pursuing a career in Quantity Surveying?

My advice is simple – just do it! I’d say that previous experience is more valuable than you think, and I’d wholeheartedly recommend doing the Quantity Surveying Masters degree because it really helps you hit the ground running.

I’d thought about it for a couple of years before I was let go from my previous job, but looking back I regret sticking at what I was doing, really for the sake of not breaking off to go back to University. If I’d done it earlier, I would have more experience and be higher up the ladder by now. So, my top tip is don’t procrastinate! As soon as you think about doing it, do it!

Have Alex’s story piqued your interest? Learn more about why joining us could be the best career decision you make by clicking here.