Berkshire-based builder Helix welcomes University of Reading Real Estate Management undergraduate Max Buckland into their team for a placement within their Design Management department.
As part of their recent Building Respect working approach, Helix has sought to support their local community by participating in the Reading Internship Scheme. That is a programme that helps students find paid, professional work experience and the chance to develop transferable skills for University of Reading students.
Max’s placement involves working on tenders and live contracts, including our latest residential project now on site in High Wycombe.
Matt Sargent, Head of Design, said, “We’re determined to provide an engaging learning experience where Max will see that his efforts have an impact on the projects on which he works. I know the team is mutually excited to learn from Max – we’re ready to be challenged by a fresh pair of eyes and some new ideas about how the construction industry should tackle the issues ahead of his generation.”
Max is going into his final year of BSc Real Estate Management at the University of Reading. His interest in community and sustainability stood out in his application. After his course, he wants to pursue a career within the commercial office market, challenging companies to develop more sustainable and energy efficient offices.
Max Buckland, Helix Design Management Intern, said, “I’m grateful for the Reading Internship Scheme for providing University of Reading Students with the opportunity to access high-quality, paid placements like this one. It’s great gaining experience in an SME company like Helix because the depth of project insight and involvement I will get here is unmatched.”
It’s part of Helix Group’s four-year social purpose business plan to invest in its people and become the employer of choice for future generations. The economic impact of the global pandemic has made it increasingly difficult for young people to transfer from study to the careers they want. Helix has been working to provide pathways to experience and communicate with the next generation of construction through a partnership with the University of Westminster and by sponsoring Management Trainee, Oliver Pearce.
Rakesh Parkhania, University of Reading Internship Coordinator, said: “We recommend all students take part in an internship during their course and, we’re pleased to be able to facilitate Max’s learning about the industry with a local company that strives to add value to its community. We are incredibly grateful to all our funders including Santander Employment who were able to fund this internship.”
