Aleksander Gil

Since graduating from BCU in 2018, Aleksander has become Managing Director of his own BIM Consultancy and Digital Surveying Business, Parametrix Ltd. We asked Aleksander to tell us more about how his degrees helped get him to where he is now.

Why did you choose to study your course?

To work in Architecture, studying for a related degree is the only way to get your foot in the door. This is why I decided to study BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology which would allow me to enter the industry after the initial 3-year bachelor course. The decision to study for a Master’s degree was partly linked to the desire of understanding how to manage a team better and to be able to advise clients about change implementation.   

Why did you choose BCU?  

Following my A-levels, I attended various open days at a range of universities and I have to say, BCU made the best impression. Furthermore, I was looking to move to a bigger city and Birmingham seemed like a good choice at the time.

When you started university, did you know what you wanted to do as a career?  

Yes, I’ve wanted to work in architecture and the construction sector since I was a child; university was simply the next step in order to achieve my goal. So that was exactly the path I took. Although shortly after working in the industry I found out my true ambition was to manage my own business.

Was there a particular module that you enjoyed? 

I don’t think there was particularly one module. When I visited BCU for an Open Day, I was given more information about the modules that I would be studying. I enjoyed the design modules the most, we worked in teams to design a particular type of building. This not only grew my portfolio but also allowed me to explore which architecture type was my favourite to design.

What is your current job role?

I am currently the Founding and Managing Director of my own BIM consultancy and Digital Surveying business, Parametrix Ltd. We specialise in digitising existing buildings and we consult clients on newly built projects too, utilising the BIM workflow and latest technology available to the market.  

How has your degree helped to secure and undertake this role?

My degree provided me with the foundation of knowledge required to get into the industry. Completing my Postgraduate course in MA Design Management further provided me with the knowledge and confidence to take on managerial positions. I think one of the key things I took away from university, is that if you put the hard work in, the results will show.

What do you enjoy most about your current role?

I have full control over my working day and the projects I work on. Plus, it’s financially rewarding! I prefer to have a versatile working day. My current role allows me to do just this, I work on my own client base, conduct business development, train staff, manage the delivery of projects and I’m currently working on a tender for New York! This gives me the ideal work satisfaction.

What main skills from your time at university, will you incorporate into your professional life?

One of the key skills I picked up at university was confidence. Being a Student Ambassador for the university required me to help out at Open Days and Applicant Taster Days. Through this role, I gained confidence in speaking to a range of people, organising tours, and working within a team. My confidence has grown massively since starting university and has truly helped me to succeed within my current role.

How has your life changed since you graduated?

In short, everything has changed. I guess we all evolve as people and following graduation I could see my values develop and my mentality maturing. I want to continue to set high targets for myself. I believe it is important to keep your ambitions high and not get too comfortable in a role. You can always be working on something new and continuing to broaden your knowledge and opportunities.  

What advice would you give to students who are heading into their first roles?

My main advice would be to keep an open mind. The first job you have will not be your last and being open to new styles of working and thinking is the only way to keep up with the modern working world. Also, don't be afraid of changes in your professional life. Lastly, I would like to emphasise that work ethic is key, work hard and don’t give up. You will see the results sooner or later.