We catch up with Steve Morrow
It’s been six months since Steve Morrow won Newcomer of the Year at The LABC Grand Finals Awards.
Having made a career change later in life to become one of our apprentices he is an outstanding example of determination and passion in the industry!
We caught up with him to ask about his journey and experiences in his new role.
What is your current job title and how long have you worked in this role?
I am an Assistant Building Control Surveyor. I joined HBC in August 2021.
What inspired you to work in public service building control?
I ran my own small construction company for 23 years and loved it. One day, during a foundation inspection, I got speaking with a friendly building control inspector. I asked her about the qualifications needed for building control, as I needed to change careers due to health issues like arthritis and back problems. This particular inspector encouraged me to send my CV to the Managing Director of HBC at that time. After an interview, I was offered an apprenticeship with Hertfordshire Building Control. I’m now in my third year at Westminster University, studying for my degree in BSc Building Control Surveying.
What do you enjoy most about your current role?
I enjoy interacting with everyone involved in the projects we survey. Each site has its challenges. I also like providing a service to make sure the work meets the required standards and complies with building regulations.
What’s a typical day like in building control for you?
A typical day involves answering emails and enquiries, followed by site visits ranging from foundation inspections to final checks before completion. I also review plans for building notices and full plan applications. Additionally, I attend dangerous structure calls and enforcement inspections.
What qualifications have you completed with us and why did you decide to undertake these?
I am currently studying for my BSc in Building Control Surveying. After this, I plan to become chartered with CABE.
What do you find most beneficial about working and studying at the same time?
At HBC, we have many experienced inspectors who offer advice and guidance. Seeing things from different perspectives helps with my studies.
How have your qualifications and studies helped you in your current role and future career prospects?
My studies have been very beneficial for my development and career prospects.
What’s next for you in your career?
Once I complete my degree, I’ll look into obtaining further qualifications.
What advice would you give to someone considering joining local authority building control as an apprentice?
The role can be very rewarding. It’s highly varied and interesting, and there are many opportunities for progression if you wish to pursue them. Plus you might go on to win an LABC Award, which has been a massive highlight in my career!
How did it feel to be recognised as the national winner in the LABC Awards for Newcomer of the Year?
I was totally shocked! It was great to receive the award. Without the support of my team and staff at HBC, I couldn’t have achieved Newcomer of the Year! There were times when the workload and studies were overwhelming, and I considered returning to my previous job. The encouragement and support from my colleagues helped immensely. Returning to education after 30 years has been difficult, but I know it will be worth it.
How do you think winning the award will help you in your career in local authority building control?
It’s fantastic to get recognition for hard work. The award will be a great asset to my portfolio. I have no intention of leaving local authority building control.
How does it feel to be part of a 3,500-strong network of local authority building control professionals?
Across the industry, we all have challenges to overcome. The advice and experience within LABC are very beneficial. The CPD events have always been engaging and informative.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
I enjoy the challenge and the interaction with contractors, engineers, architects, and applicants. Knowing their projects are safe and meet relevant standards is rewarding. Many contractors see building control as the enemy, but I try to explain that we are there to ensure compliance by law. Effective communication is a huge part of the role.
We’re excited to see Steve doing so well in his role following his career change and look forward to seeing more of his achievements! Read more about our further wins at the LABC Awards 2023!
