Craig Fletcher

Building a career in Civil Engineering

Craig Fletcher, from Pontypridd, studied the BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering degree and is currently studying MSc Civil Engineering and Environmental Management. 

He now works as a Highways Consultant for Capita Real Estate and Infrastructure, taking a lead role in the design and project management of a range of highway and infrastructure projects across the UK.  

"I enjoy my job, and like the challenge of taking on new and different projects. My role includes everything on highway design, from feasibility studies to detailed design, contract documents and tenders, to working closely with clients for effective project delivery. 

When I was choosing which profession to enter, I was attracted to Civil Engineering because of the variety of areas it covered, as well as the good future prospects available to graduates. 

As part of my BEng Civil Engineering degree, I secured a 12-month placement with the Highways department of a local authority. Following the placement, I was offered a full time job as a highways engineer and stayed for five years, completing my degree part time. This allowed me to gain valuable career experience during this early part of my career. 

Progressing from an undergraduate student to postgraduate student with USW’s support

Having successfully completed my BEng qualification, I progressed on to my Masters Civil Engineering programme. The course is accredited for Chartered status and this was a key factor in choosing the course. What’s more, having studied my undergraduate degree at USW, I was familiar with the staff and facilities, both of which are a very high standard. 

I'm enjoying the Masters course. It is challenging but rewarding, and has allowed me to develop as a Civil Engineer and interact with other engineers at a similar level to myself. As part of a module on Low Carbon Technologies and Sustainability, we undertook a field trip to the Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) in Machynlleth. This allowed us to view various sustainable technologies in a real life situation, which was not only informative but a fun day out away from the traditional classroom learning. 

One of the most interesting projects I have been involved in was a group one. As part of a module on Integrative Project Planning and Management, we were tasked with the full design of an aerospace centre. It allowed us to be creative, whilst using our shared experience and team working skills to deliver the project. 

I would highly recommend this civil engineering course to anyone who is looking to become a Chartered Engineer (CEng). My intention is to keep learning and developing. Having recently obtained my Incorporated Engineer (IEng) status, I now plan to sit my CEng professional review on completion of my MSc."