On this weeks' Careers In Construction, meet Chinedum, an Architect. An architect is a skilled professional who plans and designs buildings and generally plays a key role in their construction. Architects are highly trained in the art and science of building design. Since the bear responsibility for the safety of their building’s occupants, architects must be professionally licensed.
1. Why did you choose this career path?
I loved arts, sciences & humanities. Coming from a Nigerian background & speaking to my parents, I was encouraged to pursue my “passion for drawing” via this ‘more stable’ means.
2. What did you study in school/university?
A-Levels: Art, Maths & Chemistry. I have a Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) in Architecture, an M.Arch Masters in Architecture & a Postgrad Diploma in Professional Practice of Architecture.
3. What certifications are associated with your career?
The ultimate certification is the ARB Register, as that enables you to legally use the title of Architect in the UK. There’s also the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) & you can use this acronym after your name once chartered.
4. What advice do you have for someone looking to pursue this career path?
Be open to trying varying creative practices, be a sponge to the environments around you & never stop learning. The pace of technology and potential for working in the built environment changes so rapidly, it’s best to read blogs, attend lectures & go and see things for yourself to get a glimpse of it all. Find a mentor who’s external to your everyday life to help you get insight into aspects.