Industry Leaders Visit Peterborough College to Inspire Future Construction Professionals

Representatives included Guy Burton and Anthony Parker-Please (Associate Directors, Turner & Townsend), Ashley Voss (Project Director, AECOM), along with senior cost managers and commercial professionals Waqas Tuqeer, Samson Yau and Cas Chohan, from Turner & Townsend, who kindly shared their expertise and real-world insights.

Throughout the afternoon, students received an in-depth overview of key professional roles, future skills needs across the sector, and typical entry pathways into areas such as project management, environment lead, quantity surveying, and technical disciplines. Degree Apprenticeships, Level 3 Apprenticeships and trainee programmes were highlighted as important opportunities for students seeking a practical route into the industry.

Following the main presentation, students took part in small consultation sessions where they could ask questions directly, explore future career options, and gain tailored advice on next steps. The small group format allowed learners to receive personalised guidance and a clearer understanding of industry expectations, qualifications, and progression routes.

“Meeting professionals from Turner & Townsend and AECOM was truly eye-opening. It has motivated me to aim higher and pursue a career where I can make a difference in the construction industry” Henry Saidler, Construction Design and Surveying for Construction T Level student.