Building a career through continuous learning at Esh Construction

At Esh, we’re passionate about growing our talent from within, encouraging colleagues to further develop their knowledge and skills through training opportunities that will allow them to excel in their careers.

Charlotte Parkinson joined Esh in March 2021 as an Estimating Administrator after hearing about the opportunity through a friend and now works as a Trainee Estimator across Esh’s affordable housing division. As she prepares to begin her third training course with the business, Charlotte is a great example of how hard work, support and continuous learning can open the door to new career opportunities.

We caught up with Charlotte to find out more about her journey so far with Esh Construction.

After leaving school, I completed a year of A Levels before moving on to an apprenticeship in the retail sector. I then took on the role of Lettings and Repairs Manager at an estate agency, where I gained experience and developed a range of transferable skills. However, I knew I wanted a career that would offer long-term development and progression opportunities – and that’s when I was introduced to Esh.

I wanted to build my knowledge of both the construction industry and my new role, so when I was given the opportunity to complete an Ordinary National Certificate (ONC) in Construction and the Built Environment at New College Durham, I grabbed it with both hands. Furthering my education has always been important to me, so after completing my ONC, I went on to enrol on a Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Building Studies, awarded by Teesside University, which I have recently passed.

Putting learning into practice

Completing my HNC has been instrumental in helping me build the skill set that I now apply in my day-to-day role. As well as improving my understanding of the technical areas such as building regulations and standards, the course has helped me develop transferable skills too. Through balancing assignments with day-to-day tasks, communicating with my peers on group projects, and presenting in front of a group of people, my confidence has flourished.

No two days are the same in my role as a Trainee Estimator. Since completing my qualifications, I’ve gradually taken on greater responsibility and been trusted to manage more aspects of the estimating process. I now price my own projects, input quotes, complete take-offs from drawings, manage the subcontractor database, and take part in site visits for both prospective and secured projects.

I’m looking forward to beginning my next challenge as I continue on the path of education and professional development, commencing a BSc (Hons) Construction Management Degree in September at Teesside University.

Completing study alongside working is something I would always recommend to people. It gives you the chance to access new opportunities, meet new people and share knowledge and experiences along the way.

I can’t thank Esh enough for the support I’ve received so far. The encouragement to keep pursuing the next chapter in my career, alongside the practical support from the team – whether helping with assignments or accommodating day release – has shown how committed Esh is in investing in its people.