Meet Carol Massay, Head of Construction at Access UK.
1. Why did you choose this career path?
I was always interested in the way things are built, especially houses. With this interest, I read many books about early buildings and methods for building. I was also intrigued with the way roads were repaired and the preparation prior to putting the final material. It’s not just the sticky tarmac!!
With this passion, my first role was in the accounts department of Barratt Homes, where I could ask many questions and see firsthand the materials and approaches taken to build houses. This was then followed by working as a civil engineering contractor, where we were awarded contracts to repair and maintain roads for the Highway Agency (now known as Highways England).
I then moved to the technology side, to look at capturing all the costs, and financial information for delivery of the construction works and simplifying the tasks with technology
2. What did you study in school/university?
School for me was many years ago… I loved working with numbers and was very creative. I study accountancy in the evenings and worked during the day
3. What certifications are associated with your career?
Chartered Institute for Highways and Transportation (CIHT), MAAT, CIMA.
4. What advice do you have for someone looking to pursue this career path?
I would definitely say that having the experience of working with a contractor is the best experience you can get. Being in that live environment. Never be afraid to ask questions, this is the only way to learn.