Trevor Power graduated from Edinburgh Napier University with BSc (Hons) Building Surveying qualification. Working as a Senior Building Surveyor at Faithful+Gould, Trevor shares insights about his working life and also shares advise for current students.
Could you please tell us your name and where do you work now?
My name is Trevor Power. I am working as a Senior Building Surveyor at Faithful+Gould. 
What does your work life look like/ What type responsibilities do you have to carry out every day?
Currently I look after several different projects in different roles. These can be design, site monitoring, contract administration along with building condition surveys, asset management surveys. Depending on the project some days can be the same in terms of work required but be vastly different in terms of how the work is undertaken or where it is required.
Can you name any specific course modules, group project, assignments or any other university experience that has helped you in your daily work life?
The most helpful modules that have helped me in my career have been the core Building Surveying modules that define the course. The Construction Technology modules add further to this overall knowledge of buildings and how we construct and maintain them.
What excites you about working in this field?
The variety of work along with the variety of buildings that works are undertaken to excite me the most. Also, I find it very exciting that no two jobs are ever the same in my daily work life.
What’s your favorite thing you get to do in your job?
In the early part of my career, I think it would be the travel, all be it only around Scotland, but I have seen places that I would not have normally gone to if not for work. Currently my favorite are the historical projects that we are involved with.
What’s the most important skill you need for this role?
I think that would be communication skills. Everything that I undertake is required to be communicated along be it via emails, reports, drawings, and meeting. It is important to be able to convey this information and be sure that everyone understands it.
Do you have any advice for the current students from the same course which will help to shape their careers?
My recommendation would be to try and gain some experience with a firm or volunteer organization within the construction sector. If this is not possible there will always be transferable skills that will be a great benefit to your career. I would also recommend attending some MATRICS meeting and events to broaden your knowledge, but it is also a good opportunity to meet professionals currently working in industry.