Nathan Hassall, Construction Management apprenticeship graduate, has won at the Building the Future Awards 2025. Nathan graduated from the Construction Management apprenticeship in the summer of 2025 has won Young Site Manager of the Year.
Launched three years ago, the Building the Future Awards were created to address skills shortages in the built environment and construction sector by celebrating and promoting young talent. The awards recognise and showcase the achievements of outstanding 18–35-year-olds, highlight positive role models, and raise awareness of the industry’s importance while inspiring the next generation to pursue careers in construction.
Dr Ilnaz Ashayeri, Senior Lecturer in Construction Management at Birmingham City University reflects on Nathan’s award:
“Nathan is a consistently self-motivated, curious, and highly engaged in both academic and practical aspects of his learning. He demonstrates strong leadership in group work, communicates effectively with others, and is confident in making informed decisions when challenges arise. His achievement at BTF is a reflection of his professionalism, dedication, and the great potential he continues to show for a successful career in the construction industry”.
We caught up with Nathan to reflect on his award win:
How do you feel about your recent award success? What does this mean to you?
Receiving this award is a profound honour. It serves as a powerful validation of the late nights and the balancing act of work and study. I am incredibly grateful to the judges and especially to those who nominated me, knowing that my hard work has been noticed, making this achievement even more meaningful.
Reflecting on your time studying at BCU for the Construction Management apprenticeship, what were your highlights?
I would say that the greatest highlights of studying at BCU are the people you meet and the friends you make along the way. I wasn't sure if I would have the same social experience being an apprentice student rather than full-time, but I have truly made friends for life, and that has only been made possible by undertaking my degree and BCU.
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What skills and knowledge has your time studying at BCU given you that are helping you thrive in your job?
The course provided a theoretical foundation that I found I could apply in real time on-site. Specifically, my dissertation honed my critical thinking and ability to filter misinformation, a skill that is vital in an industry where technical accuracy and 'best practice' are non-negotiable for safety.
Can you tell us a little about your current role?
I won my award during my time at Novus Solutions. During my time there, I progressed from Site Supervisor to Assistant Contracts Manager. This January, I transitioned into a new chapter as a Training Officer at the Association for Specialised Fire Protection (ASFP). I’m excited to use my degree and my 'on-the-tools' experience to shape the next generation of industry professionals. It feels like the perfect way to pay forward the education I received at BCU.
What would your advice be to anyone considering studying an apprenticeship in construction/the built environment?
My advice is to start with the end in mind. Don't just focus on the degree; look at the career trajectory beyond it. Ask yourself: 'What's the next step after graduation?' Whether it's moving from full-time study to an apprenticeship or aiming for a specific job role, having a forward-thinking mindset ensures you're always building toward your next promotion.
