Introducing... Sahib Singh, apprentice quantity surveyor
It’s National Apprenticeship Week 2026 and we’re delighted to introduce you to 19-year-old apprentice Sahib Singh who’s undertaking a Degree Apprenticeship with SMD through the University of Greenwich. With A levels in Maths, Physics and Economics, Sahib is now training to become a quantity surveyor.
What attracted you to a career in the construction industry?
My Dad has a building company, so I’ve grown up surrounded by construction. I used to help him during school holidays and weekends. I love numbers and problem-solving and using my analytical skills, so I chose the QS route. I’ve realised that I can have a real influence on the success of a project.
Who’s been helping you the most at SMD?
I’ve been working closely with Finley, our QS, Jon, our commercial director and Graham, the contracts manager. They’ve been guiding me and teaching me the ropes.
What projects are you currently working on?
Cinch in Ashford, Surrey, where we’re doing a design and build project to create a steel frame storage facility and Sycamore House in Bletchley, where we’re upgrading and remodelling the house and hall complex.
What’s the best thing you’ve learnt recently?
The most valuable thing I have learnt recently and am still developing is how to work on more than one project at a time. I am improving my organisational and decision-making skills as a result of this, so I can stay on top of various tasks at once.
What have you enjoyed most about your work so far?
I really enjoy going to site and seeing the progress -from nothing to a whole building and seeing the construction process develop. I also enjoy the satisfaction and sense of achievement of knowing that my contribution is helping the project to progress.
What’s been the biggest challenge so far?
After the first three months, I was given the responsibility to work independently for the first time and was the only QS working on the job. I was really thrown in at the deep end and was picking the job up as I went along, but with support from our commercial director. It was a really positive experience, and I learned so much during that period.
What’s surprised you the most?
It’s been a real eye-opener finding out how many parties are involved in delivering a commercial project. There’s the design team, consultants, client team, subcontractors and lots of different disciplines all collaborating to create a successful job.
Would you recommend a career in the construction industry?
Yes. It’s a really good industry to get into. There’s always a demand for construction and lots of different job roles and new challenges. And it doesn’t have to be just site-based work – there are all the other roles that are in every business, like accounting, marketing or HR.
Do you feel you’re on track to achieve your career goals?
Yes, I’m always progressing and learning from colleagues and feel like I’m heading in the right direction.
What’s been the most fun so far?
There are lots of jokes on site, so it can be very funny, and it’s great to have a change of scenery and atmosphere. However, it’s also good to be in the office and have quiet time to concentrate.
