Jasmine Pugh - BSc (Hons) Building Surveying

Jonathan Cornes Associates

Why did you choose to study an apprenticeship?

After finishing my A Levels, I realised that a full-time university course was not suited to me, I learn better by doing.

Looking back over your time on the apprenticeship so far, how have you found the whole experience?

It has been a bumpy ride, you don’t realise until you are in the industry of construction, really how much of a male dominated industry it is! However, I haven’t given up and it is the most rewarding experience to have achieved at such a young age, to show so much resilience is hard sometimes.

How would you describe the support that you’ve received from the University of Salford?

The support from the University has been fantastic, there is in particular one member of staff that has helped me through some really tough times – but has kept me going.

What has been your proudest achievement on your apprenticeship to date?

There have been many moments I have been proud of myself, but I think my proudest achievement is getting a 2.1 in my Property Law assignment, as Property Law wasn’t my favourite module.

What do you want to do once you complete your apprenticeship?

Once I complete my apprenticeship, I will be sitting my APC. Therefore, I hope to pass my APC and become Chartered so that I can one day have my own Surveying business.

What led you to a career in construction?

I have always been interested in property, but I wasn’t sure what to do – until my dads’ friend said "why don’t you be a building surveyor?" and here we are now 4 years later.

What advice would you give to other women who are interested in a career pursuing in construction?

My advice would be that you can do anything, whatever you put your mind to. It doesn’t matter whether you are a woman or a man. Don’t be afraid to push the boat out and be confident.

How do you think the sector can attract more female candidates?

I think that there is a stigma when it comes to construction, that it is a manly sector – but it’s really not and I think this needs to be heavily promoted that it is not just men in construction it's women in construction too!