Mark Steadman

Mark Steadman says that starting a new career at age 50 has been a “fun journey”.

Mark enrolled in Quantity Surveying at Otago Polytechnic, and spent the next two years developing technical and professional skills.

“My previous work experiences were not in construction. Probably the most important part of my first year in the course was learning about all the components that actually make up a building, whether residential or commercial.”

Mark points out that there’s a whole world of terminology related to building across multiple professions, that include builders and architects, carpentry, concreting, plumbing, mechanical, fire protection, glazing and more. But he took to the challenge with relish.

One of the most valuable compontents of the Quantity Surveying programme was visiting existing buildings and construction sites to see up close how a building is put together.

“Our lecturer’s commentary on what we were looking at, along with the Site Foreman’s insights, were great learning opportunities.”

Quantity Surveying includes estimating materials and costs across the building trades, along with project managment, construction contracts and programming. Mark says the hands-on computer skills he learned have been essential, as the day-to-day tasks of a Quantity Surveyor involves a lot of time working on spreadsheets and cost analysis, along with working out how long (in months or even years) a given project will take.

Since graduating, Mark has stepped into a role as a Quantity Surveyor at Amalgamated Builders Limited.

“In my role at ABL, I work on both small and large-scale commercial and residential projects where I’m responsible for preparing cost estimates, managing budgets, conducting site measurements, and ensuring projects adhered to financial targets. My role involves effective communication with architects, engineers, and project managers, along with our own site foremen and workers.

“I am grateful for the solid foundation that Otago Polytechnic provided and the ongoing support from my colleagues at ABL. Starting a new career, even at the age of 50, is possible for anyone – it’s certainly been a fun journey.”