Owen Long & Kate Powell
Organisation : GB SPM
“The placement has given me the opportunity to gain valuable experience within the industry building on my knowledge of the issues related to sustainability.”
The company was looking for skilled graduates to assist with a variety of contracts focusing on BREEAM (the environmental assessment method for buildings). This sets the standard for best practice in sustainable design and a buildings environmental performance.
During the work placement Owen assessed a new £1.2m training and education development at Machynlleth. The building is one of the most eco-friendly in the UK and has just received an award for obtaining the highest BREEAM offices score in Wales.
Owen is still working for GB SPM on a full time basis:
“The placement has given me the opportunity to gain valuable experience within the industry building on my knowledge of the issues related to sustainability. Working on my project has given me an excellent insight into how buildings can be and will have to be built in the future to meet Government climate change targets.”
Kate Powell also completed a 10 week work placement with GB SPM:
“I was immersed in the workings of the company from day one; I worked on really exciting schemes ranging from a rural primary school to the redevelopment of a town centre. I was able to make a real contribution to the business at an early stage with the assistance and enthusiasm from Gordon.”
Gordon Brown owner of GB SPM initially employed Owen and Kate as 10 week work placements, having found two excellent graduates who adapted to the role quickly he offered them permanent positions. Gordon is keen on using GO Wales for future opportunities:
“We will definitely use GO Wales to offer further placements and work tasters to both students and graduates.”
