Louise's story...

I studied Sociology at Nottingham Trent University. The subject appealed to me as it is a wide-ranging, studying people, organisations, and society. I was able to developed strong skills in research, critical thinking, and structured analysis, while keeping doors open as I considered my career options.

During my degree, I became particularly interested in the construction industry and gained work experience at Turner & Townsend, exploring different roles. This is where I discovered quantity surveying. I went on to complete a master’s conversion course in the subject. Once completed I began my career at a consultancy, gaining full project lifecycle experience across a range of sectors, before relocating to Surrey to join Huntley Cartwright.

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What was good about this route?

Although my route into quantity surveying wasn’t the most direct, it gave me a broader foundation and transferable skills. Since joining HC, I’ve developed further and passed my APC to become MRICS.

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Quantity surveying is a great career, not only for working on interesting projects and contributing to something lasting, but also because it’s about people and relationships, where transferable skills are key to building trust and repeat work.

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Why did you choose Huntley Cartwright?

I chose Huntley Cartwright for the variety of sectors, including conservation and heritage, where I worked on restoring a Christopher Wren church originally built in the late 1600s.

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 The firm’s focus on traditional quantity surveying, for example producing Bills of Quantities, is great for younger surveyors as many practices don’t teach it anymore. Alongside the strong chartership support, it’s a brilliant place to grow and develop.

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Advice for others choosing this route?

There are many routes into quantity surveying, and it’s important to choose the one that feels right for you. My path wasn’t the most direct, but it gave me broader skills and confidence in my decision. Whether through a traditional degree, a conversion course, or work-based training, the key is finding the route that matches your strengths and ambitions.

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