Elaine Huskinson - BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying

We spoke to Elaine Huskinson about how a degree apprenticeship can fast‑track career progression in Quantity Surveying. Elaine's experience demonstrates the value of employer and university support, as well as the importance of applying learning directly to real projects. It also highlights how apprenticeships can develop not only technical competence, but confident professionals who go on to support and inspire others.

We asked Elaine...

What made you want to pursue quantity surveying?

Quantity Surveying chose me. I have not had the most conventional of pathways into the industry. I had been working as a commercial assistant at Buckingham for several years, and before that as a finance assistant at Babcock. I knew I enjoyed construction. There is something satisfying about the work.  

I started working with Emma Navan in 2017 on a rail depot, and she saw my potential and frustration. She supported me in being in a position where I could either progress at Buckingham or look to move elsewhere to continue my QS journey. It was my first experience of having someone in my corner.

Why did you choose to study an apprenticeship?

In 2018, thanks to the development plan Emma put in place and championing me, I was told Buckingham would pay for me to complete my degree. This then changed to an offer of a degree apprenticeship. Salford was one of the few universities at the time that offered a degree apprenticeship in quantity surveying as an accelerated degree. This aligned with my knowledge and experience and allowed me to complete the process two years earlier than I would have on the traditional path.

What does your apprenticeship involve day to day?

For me, I was in university one day a week for three years; there was no summer break (typically, there was a two- to four-week break between trimesters), and I completed two modules at a time to allow me to complete the degree in three years. This was intense but worthwhile. I would have quarterly meetings with the university and my line manager to ensure I was progressing and that the work I was doing supported my learning. These meetings are why I moved divisions, as they highlighted that I knew all I could learn about rail at the time and might benefit from working on different build types.

I am probably the best and worst person to have as a councillor, as I know the effort that is needed and when you haven't put in the effort. I am also very aware of the jargon, and every time someone new is introduced to the degree apprenticeship, they are surprised by what is required.

Looking back over your time on the apprenticeship so far, how have you found the whole experience?

Without Emma and the apprenticeship, I would not be where I am today. It reinvigorated my desire to learn. Thanks to the degree apprenticeship, I was able to apply for jobs at consultancies when I realised I had come to the end of the road with Buckingham.  

I have been with Vextrix for four years. At Vextrix, I am supported by like-minded colleagues in delivering a diverse range of projects. From the Platform Validators installation on the platform in Cornwall to the Radlett SFRI project, no day is the same. We have several apprentices on different pathways, and Vextrix actively encourages learning and continued personal development.

Since leaving, I have successfully supported several RICS candidates with their APC. I offer my time to external apprentices who require counselling. I have continued my personal development and am an accredited NEC4 Project Manager. I am also planning to submit my application to the CIOB this year.

I was awarded the RICS DRS Women in Construction Scholarship last year and am currently completing the Diploma in Adjudication, which I am thoroughly enjoying.  

How would you describe the support that you've received from the University of Salford?

It's been six years since I graduated, and I am still in contact with the university. The support does not go away once you leave. I was unfortunate to have to complete my degree during COVID, but I was also privileged to see how easily Salford adapted to the change. As an alumnus, I still use the library for the textbooks I have required for the Diploma in Adjudication.

What has been your proudest achievement in your apprenticeship to date?

I am proud of every achievement. Working full-time, completing a degree to first-class Honours standard, and becoming chartered in five years is no easy feat. I could not believe it when I won the Women in Construction Scholarship, but, to be truly honest, I am proud of the people I have supported in their development.

I was so happy when my colleague Talal became chartered with the RICS last year. I witnessed the effort he put in, and it paid off. Lucas is doing so well on his degree apprenticeship, and I have loved seeing his confidence grow. Even though they are not my achievements, hearing someone I have supported who has been successful makes me proud.

What would you say to someone considering an apprenticeship?

It is worthwhile, but it is a lot of work. My sister is currently completing a level 5 apprenticeship in hospitality and was complaining about all the reports she has to complete for evidence on top of the course. It's the same complaint every apprentice has.

Do you have any advice for future apprentices?

Be prepared and be honest with yourself. Apprenticeships are great, but they require more work than a traditional degree. You will need to complete them, and you will be supported to

Find out more about Quantity Surveying degree apprenticeship.