wHY WORK IN THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT

What is the built environment?

The built environment covers all aspects of developing, designing, constructing, and maintaining the places and spaces in which we live, work, and interact. This includes engineering, construction, land and planning, and sustainable development.

Why choose a career in the built environment?

1. Meaningful impact: You can contribute directly to the infrastructure and spaces that shape communities. Your work has visible, lasting effects on both the skyline and society at large.
2. Diverse opportunities: Whether you’re interested in design, engineering, sustainability, or project management, there are a wide range of career paths.
3. Innovation and technology: Work with cutting-edge tools like Building Information Modelling (BIM) and sustainable materials. Stay ahead in an exciting field that’s constantly evolving.
4. Career stability and growth: This sector offers a solid foundation for your career, with clear development paths as the need for infrastructure and sustainable solutions increase.
5. Collaborative environment: Engage in multidisciplinary teamwork, working alongside architects, consultants, engineers, contractors, and planners to bring projects to life.

Find your early career pathway with Wates.

If you want to make a real impact in your career, there’s no better place to start your journey.

FIND OUT MORE

TESTIMONIALS

See how our early career programmes have impacted people's careers at Wates.

Our early career programmes give people the opportunity to grow, develop and succeed in their career with us.

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Chardae Opoku-Afranie

Commercial Management Trainee

I joined Wates after completing my A Levels, and I am currently a Commercial Management Trainee pursuing a Level 4 qualification in quantity surveying. I was inspired to join Wates by my dad’s profession as a Civil Engineer – I always knew I wanted to embark on a career in the built environment. I now look to inspire a new generation of talent to seize opportunities in the built environment, whatever their background. As a black woman in the industry, my role at Wates empowers me to be a pivotal role model and represent diverse talent in the industry. In the future, I look forward to progressing onto chartership, and one day becoming a Commercial Manager.

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Aimee Shann

Quality Manager

My career at Wates has been very varied. I joined Wates as a Production Management Trainee in 2017. After a wonderful five years working in site management roles, I moved across to the Quality team in 2022. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Wates so far and have been given some incredible opportunities, including recently being appointed onto the Future Leaders Board. There are endless career opportunities within the industry and my development across roles is just one example of that. It is evident Wates are a people focused company and they genuinely care about employee development.

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Golden Iwourie

Planning Management Trainee

Over the past two years, I have embarked on a transformative journey as a Planning Management Trainee within Wates, a company that prioritises the growth and development of its trainees. Joining through the esteemed trainee programme, I've had the invaluable opportunity to immerse myself in the intricacies of the built environment industry while learning on the job. One of the programme's highlights has been the opportunity to undertake placements across diverse departments such as Production, Commercial, Design, SHE (Safety, Health, and Environment), M&E (Mechanical and Electrical), and Bid.

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Holly Rush

Developments Management Trainee

I joined Wates with no prior industry experience, and it has been an incredible journey. Through the graduate scheme I worked in the Project team supporting the promotion of land through planning. I am also an active member of the Wates Women and Allies Steering Committee which I’ve gained invaluable insights from. Wates' dedication to excellence and innovative solutions have accelerated my learning curve while allowing me to expand my professional network. Their supportive culture and emphasis on development have made each challenge manageable and rewarding. I wholeheartedly recommend Wates for anyone seeking a dynamic career path with growth and opportunity.”