Apprentice Diaries – Dan Baker

Dan Baker, is another apprentice working at Moortown who is studying a course on Construction and the Built Environment at Leeds College of Building in order to become a Site Engineer. This involves five years of education whilst working full time on site, and doing one day a week at is at the Leeds College of Building.

Read on to hear Dan’s thoughts!

Why did you choose this vocation?

“It was through a work placement over the summer that instigated my interest in a career in construction. My Dad has worked for the company for several years now and he encouraged me to give it a try. I’m so glad I gave the work placement a go, as it made me realise that I enjoyed this type of work environment and a hands on learning approach, whilst undertaking a course at a College too.”

What has it been like working at Moortown Group?

“I’ve had the opportunity to work on a diverse range of projects such as Mustard Wharf in Leeds, West Oaks School in Leeds, Student Accommodation at University of York, Lincoln County Hospital and now I’m going to work at York Guildhall.” 

“Every job has varied so much. So far Mustard Wharf has been my favourite job because of the size of the project. Due to the nature of works, like concreting frames you could see the results quicker and seeing it all finished brought huge satisfaction.”

“My responsibilities have increased job by job. I have learnt so much in a short time from being out on site. I enjoy the responsibilities that come with the role of an engineer because I feel like I contribute a lot to the job and the final outcome of the job. I also enjoy using the instruments to set out/survey on site and using AutoCAD in the office, and also the technical work as it puts my own mind to work.”

What skills have you learnt? 

• Setting out/surveying on site.
• AutoCAD – preparing drawings for setting out, drawing up surveys, etc.
• Time keeping – making sure the men on site are put to work on time and the schedule is followed where possible and to avoid delays on the overall duration of the job.
• Communication – Communicating with everyone in a work environment has massively improved my confidence and interactions with the wider team.
• Problem solving – to be able to react quickly when a problem occurs and find out the solution.

What are your future aspirations?

• Becoming a fully qualified engineer and knowing my craft well.
• Looking forward to taking on more challenging projects.
• Progress successfully through the ranks at Moortown.

We look forward to following up on Dan’s progress on his apprenticeship journey.

Careers Event for Apprenticeships

 

Moortown Group recently had the pleasure of attending a career event hosted by York College on Monday 1st November. We were thrilled to be invited to this Open Doors event, where hundreds of 16-18 year olds began exploring their possible career options. The College runs this event several times a year, but for us, this was Moortown’s first appearance there. 

Our aim was to engage with lots of students who were open to the idea of a career in construction, especially those who knew very little about what was on offer. Often, so many students do not know or even hear of the roles and opportunities in this industry, and they were pleasantly surprised to hear how they could relate school subjects that they enjoyed to a promising career path. It was particularly fantastic to see several female students enquiring about careers in Engineering and Plant Operations, and being able to speak face to face with our existing apprentices really boosted their interest in pursuing it further. Currently, we have a handful of brilliant apprentices working at Moortown that are at various different stages of their training and learning journey. In the past month, we have recruited another student who is currently studying to be an Engineer and is now gaining work experience with Moortown whilst undertaking his second year of study through York College. 

Why we chosen to taken on a work placement student? 

We felt it was important to give young potential talent the opportunity to see first-hand the realities of the working world. By doing this, they can see for themselves if this is something that appeals to their interests. Work placements give people the chance to have a little taste at what’s on offer, with fairly low risk involved on both sides. In recent years, we have successfully taken on a very small number of students who have stayed with us and progressed onto more senior roles. The business is in a fortunate position to support more individuals who have an interest in construction, and possess a keen ‘work-hard’ ethic. The industry itself needs to keep making a real effort by investing in the next generation in order to prevent a huge skills gap, and providing work placements and apprenticeships is one way of doing so. We want to play our part in supporting future employment. 

How does it benefit our Company?

Many of our employees at Moortown have been part of the company for years and years. We are very honoured to have such a high staff retention, which we believe is testament to the genuine work culture we have here. We see the value in welcoming future generations to our team, who come on board to be nurtured and supported on their career journey, and later become a well-established individual. The benefits are felt by everyone when a company cares about who they bring into their workforce. A lot of our site teams have been brilliant in providing guidance to our apprentices and trainees by taking them under their wing to learn and progress further into the business.

How do you think Students benefit from work placements? 

There are several ways in which students benefit, whether it be from learning about the construction industry all round, the nature of works within the subcontracting sector or learning some technical knowledge. We often hear from our apprentices and trainees that they feel their confidence levels have increased and their communication skills have all improved significantly. The feedback we’ve had has been very positive, and described as an enjoyable experience that can be very challenging but highly rewarding. All of our apprentices have said that they much prefer working in a ‘hands-on’ environment because you learn so much in a short time. Classroom learning provides the theory and assignment structure needed to qualify, but our apprentices have acknowledged that the real learning is out on-site.

Apprentice Diaries: Joe Campagna

Studying a Bachelor of Science with Honours in Quantity Surveying at the Leeds Beckett University, Joe Campagna is an Assistant Quantity Surveyor that came under the Moortown Group wing three and a half years ago. With another eighteen months of study left to complete, Joe talks about his journey so far and why he chose a career in the construction industry.

Read on to hear Joe’s journey!

Why did you choose this vocation?

“All sorts of buildings from around the world inspire me. They represent who we are, the society we are all part of, and crucially stand valiant against the modern world we live in today. Whilst exploring my interest in the construction industry as a whole, I discovered that my interest lies within the procurement and construction of a building or structure, with particular emphasis on the economic, legal, financial and managerial aspects of the process which in turn, led to my desire to become a Quantity Surveyor”.

” I enjoyed learning about maths and finance in school, and have always had an interest in construction and civil engineering from a young age. I like problem solving and the blend between being office and site based is also great. No two days are the same“.

What has it been like working at Moortown Group?

“I joined Moortown Group in July 2018, and have worked on a range of projects. Since becoming an Assistant Quantity Surveyor, I have worked on some projects of my own such as the Bradford Royal Infirmary, which involved building a new maternity ward. Another project I’ve been heavily involved in is the HMP in Hull. This project consisted of implementing new services inside the prison, and has been an interesting and tricky job that I have learnt so much from”.

“I enjoy the cost reporting side of the job as it gives me an insight into the project’s performance.  I also enjoy building a strong relationship between Moortown and the client as this helps the project run smoothly, and good communication between all parties is key”.

What skills have you learnt? 

• Monthly Valuation / Applications for projects; as well as the pricing of variations and Value engineering options
• Cost reporting (CVR Reports)
• Measurement of all elements of Groundworks such as: Drainage, Substructure, Services & External Works. I can undertake this using both traditional and more modern methods such as Bluebeam Revu (Measurement software)
• Communication skills such as liaising with clients and also the procurement of sub-contractors
• The preparation of a Bill of Quantities. Being able to measure and transfer the quantities into a Bill format which coincides with a particular item and rate
• I have expanded my knowledge of managing the costs and budget of a building project from outset to completion.

What are your future aspirations?

• Help deliver large and complex construction projects, being involved in each element of the job and honing in on the surveying skills I have learnt over the years
• Progress as a Quantity Surveyor and into a management role within the business.

We’re looking forward to supporting Joe in his next chapter at Moortown Group.

Apprentice Diaries – Tom Warrington

   

Studying a course in BSc Hons Construction Management at the Leeds Beckett University, Tom Warrington is a Trainee Engineer that has already been with Moortown Group for the past 4 years. He has 1 more year left to complete his apprenticeship before he graduates as a qualified Engineer. Read on to hear Tom’s thoughts on his journey so far and why he chose a career in the construction industry.

Why did you choose this vocation?

“At school I realised my strengths were in Maths and IT, so I began looking for a potential career paths which incorporated both areas. I enjoy these subjects too and it seemed logical to follow my interests which led me to researching engineering roles. From what I’ve understood, Construction appears to be an industry that will always be in demand, and that brings some level of stability and security that my skillset will always be needed”.

What has it been like working at Moortown Group?

“I joined Moortown Group in May 2017, and have had the pleasure of working on a diverse range of projects. Some of these projects include: York Guildhall, Leeds Playhouse, Barbara Hepworth Building at University of Huddersfield, The Majestic Building in Leeds, Amazon Warehouse in Hull and the Melton Police Head Quarters. ”

“I enjoy the responsibility of my role very much, and the reward in progressing gradually project by project and expanding my knowledge in the best way I can. There is a real sense of support and career progression within the company and the industry. The realism of the work you carry out is unlike any University work that’s given to you. It’s invaluable experience.”

“The work culture is ideal. Expectations are high which keeps you motivated and the team is friendly and encouraging. You gain so much experience on site while completing your degree.”

What skills have you learnt? 

• Time management
• Leadership qualities
• Understanding of multiple drawing types
• Understanding of multiple management and engineering principles

What are your future aspirations?

• Completing my University Degree in the not too distance future, along with my NVQ (Level 6 Site Management).
• I’d like to gain as much experience as possible working with lots of different people so I can learn and progress onto a management role.

We’re looking forward to supporting Tom in his next chapter at Moortown Group.

Apprentice Diaries – Jack Keane

 

Jack Keane, is another apprentice working at Moortown who is half way through his course as a Trainee Site Engineer. This involves 4 years of education whilst working full time on site, and doing one day a week at is at the Leeds College of Building.

Read on to hear Jack’s thoughts!

Why did you choose this vocation?

“I was looking at careers whilst still at sixth form and liked the sound of going into construction. Most of my family have taken a similar route and it appealed to me too. I like to be involved in work that keeps you on your feet, being out and about on site and hands on learning works really well for me.”

“I enjoy learning about the processes required to build. It’s challenging and rewarding.”

What has it been like working at Moortown Group?

“I joined in August 2019, and have been fortunate to work on a diverse range of projects such as Yorkshire Evening Post, CAMHS Hospital and several primary schools. I have liked the variety very much.”

“It’s been a very enjoyable experience so far, getting to learn a trade whilst earning and putting it into practice. My responsibilities have increased over time, getting into a routine, more decision making and feeling more confident overall.

 

What skills have you learnt? 

• CAD – spending a couple of days setting up the model and being taught how to read models.
• Cut and fills – carrying out surveys
• Setting out – marking the foundations with spray, picking lines and using lasers.
• Record keeping – maintaining concrete records and drainage.

What are your future aspirations?

“I’m looking forward to becoming a fully qualified engineer and continuing to work in groundworks. I want to learn as much as possible and maybe do a further qualification such as a HND. I’m really pleased I recently passed my supervisor course, I’ve been lucky to work in a place like this, with such a good team of people around me showing me the ropes.”

We look forward to following up on Jack’s progress on his apprenticeship journey.

Apprentice Diaries – Drew Carr

Studying Level 3 Construction and the Built Environment at the Leeds College of Building, Drew Carr joined the Moortown team back in September 2016 as a Trainee Engineer that is looking forward to graduating at the end of this year. 

Read on to hear Drew’s apprenticeship experience!

What has it been like working at Moortown Group?

“There’s been a great mix of engineers to learn from and I’ve felt valued doing real work and not just shadowing my colleagues, but really getting stuck in with the team. They have supported and encouraged me along the way, and I’ve never felt uncomfortable to ask for help if it’s needed. It’s a positive working environment here, and it’s really benefitted my confidence levels”.

Which projects have you worked on? 

• Field Head Hospital, Wakefield
• Biomass Templeborough, Rotherham
• WREN, Hull
• Bannerdale School, Sheffield
• CTAR, University of Leeds
• Sedburgh Sports Centre, Bradford
• Ash Hill School, Doncaster
• East Leeds Free School

Favourite Project?

“I particularly enjoyed working on the Biomass project at Templeborough, Rotherham. I learnt a huge amount, and really felt like a valued member of the Team there. I also really liked working on Bannerdale School, which was my first School project. Again, the team here were really supportive and I was able to make the most of this opportunity”.

What are your future aspirations?

“I’d like to keep working hard within the business, and working on a wide variety of projects. Ultimately, I’d like to progress onto becoming a Project Manager one day”.

We’re looking forward to supporting Drew in his next chapter at Moortown Group.

Apprentice Diaries: Joe Farrell

 

Our second apprentice spotlight is on Joe Farrell, studying Civil Engineering and Construction Management at the Leeds College of Building as a Trainee Engineer. This involves 3 years of education whilst working full time on site.

Read on to hear Joe’s thoughts!

Why did you choose this vocation?

“I already had an interest in construction from various family influences, such as my Uncle who has been a Groundworker for 19 years at Moortown Group. I was introduced to the company, and began a summer job which led to an apprenticeship“.

“The industry seems to be abundant with engineering opportunities and I liked the prospect of being part of that world and having an exciting career path. I want to earn whilst I learn, and acquire lots of good practical experience along the way”.

What has it been like working at Moortown Group?

“I joined Moortown Group in June 2021, and have been fortunate enough to work on two brilliant projects so far, the first being a Distribution Centre at South Elmsall and the other is at Aire Park in Leeds. I have enjoyed having responsibility and learning some leadership skills from others and feeling part of a team. It’s a friendly and supportive environment to work in, and I feel I can approach anyone for guidance”. 

What skills have you learnt? 

• Working with equipment including total stations and laser levels
• Taking on roles of high responsibility
• Communication skills
• Leadership skills

What are your future aspirations?

“I’d like to keep working hard and learn as much as I can within the industry and to have the opportunity to work on a variety of projects, and hopefully have a long and prosperous career with Moortown Group like my Uncle”.

We look forward to following up on Joe’s progress on his apprenticeship journey.

Improving estimation accuracy with Cubicost TAS

Cubicost TAS C-III Case Study for Globe Road, Leeds

Project Information:

Globe Road is a new residential complex to be built in the South Bank area of Leeds City Centre consisting of eight multi-story apartment buildings – the tallest of which is 23 stories including roof level. RC structural components underpin the framework of the entire site; it was Moortown Group’s responsibility to ensure a comprehensive RC frame and groundworks package is successfully estimated and delivered to the client within the allotted time. Entities included piles, pile caps, ground beams, slabs, walls, and tie beams.

We asked our Trainee Engineer Aidan Harrison who joined Moortown Group at the beginning of summer 2021, for an 8-week Work Experience placement, to learn and experiment with the software by discovering its full capabilities. His brief was to use Cubicost TAS to produce precise quantity takeoffs and visualise a large eight-building project. Using both CAD and PDF drawings, and applying the auto 3D visualisation feature they created a detailed 3D model, which helped to significantly improve estimation accuracy and communication.

Main Challenges/Tasks:

The main challenges included identifying all elements shown in the provided structural drawings and positioning them correctly within the model to ensure accurate and consistent quantity/material takeoffs. Paying careful attention to details such as varying slab levels and soffits was important as these aspects are easily overlooked, especially in large scale projects such as Globe Road. Cross-checking the results against engineers’ drawings was important at every stage of the modelling process to achieve the desired outcome and then to import drawings both in .dwg and .pdf format to extract data.

Solution Used/Approach:

Using Cubicost TAS C-III, Aidan was able to create a precise 3D model which he could use to locate specific quantities/materials. By making use of the project settings, he was able to define zones, floor levels and material grades prior to the modelling stage. He then imported structural drawings and followed the identifying process outlined in the provided tutorials on a floor-by-floor basis, starting with the foundations. Specific areas required a greater deal of precision and used the custom element tool to create non-standard entities within the model i.e., slab edge thickenings. After finalising the model, Aidan conducted quantity and material takeoffs using the built-in calculation feature. By modifying the output template, he was able to tailor the BQ, ready to be sent to the client.

            

Outcome/Achievements:

Through TAS C-III, Aidan was able to produce a 3D visualisation of the whole project including everything within Moortown Group’s RC package, allowing for a clearer understanding of the job within the business. The BQ created alongside the model contained all the necessary information to carry out the job tender, without further modification using other software. By exporting the model as an IFC file, the project may also be shared with the client to aid with project clarity and communication.

Aidan commented that he’d felt like “a valued member of an experienced team of estimators and quantity surveyors who have been exceptionally welcoming” throughout his time at the company. He added, “everyone has been very helpful and receptive; I have learnt a great deal about the construction industry all round, especially the nature of work within the subcontracting sector.” He feels his technical knowledge of RC structures, including how to conduct accurate material and quantity take-off, has been “improved considerably” and is thrilled he will be returning to university with some “great industry experience and connections which will form the basis of a future career”.

About Cubicost TAS C-III:

Cubicost TAS makes the quantification of buildings less time-consuming, more intuitive and highly automated. Redefine the quantity takeoff of architecture & structure for 2D & BIM. The software enhances drawings, allowing for elements such as walls & columns to be automatically identified and visualised in 3D, for unparalleled efficiency. Embedded measurement rules including SMM7 and NRM2 enable automatic deductions for producing precise bill of quantities. For more information click here.