In March, Alder had the privilege of welcoming more than 400 Queensland University of Technology (QUT) Engineering, Architecture and Built Environment students to one of our most visible live construction projects – the BMW Brisbane project.
For many of these students, particularly those in their first year of Construction Management and Quantity Surveying, this marked their very first step onto an active construction site. It’s a pivotal milestone in any construction career – where theory meets reality, and learning truly comes to life.
Bringing the Classroom to the Construction Site
Site visits like these play a critical role in shaping future industry leaders. Students gained firsthand insight into:
- How a live construction site operates day to day
- The importance of planning, procurement and communication
- Strong health, safety and environmental (HSE) practices
- Managing latent conditions and real‑world challenges
- The collaborative relationships between project teams, consultants and contractors
The team also took time to talk through career pathways within construction, including:
- The difference between Site Manager and Project Manager roles
- How careers can progress from Estimator to Contract Administrator, and beyond
- What it really takes to lead major projects successfully
These conversations help demystify the industry and give students clarity, confidence and inspiration as they begin their professional journeys.
The Project: Learning on a Landmark Site
Hosting the visit at the BMW Brisbane project gave students exposure to a complex, high‑profile build incorporating modern construction methodologies, detailed staging, stakeholder coordination and a strong focus on quality and safety. Seeing these elements in action reinforces classroom learning and highlights the standards required to deliver iconic projects across South East Queensland.
It’s the People Who Make Construction Happen
A huge thank you must go to our HSE Manager, Paul Fullwood and the entire project team for their outstanding support and willingness to invest time in the next generation. This experience would not have been possible without their enthusiasm, patience and commitment.
Special recognition to: Kat Donohue, Andrew Canning, Megan Mitchell, Shay Treacy, Rusi Zhang, Michael Woolley, Darren Cassidy, Sarah Pike, Cebile Mpufo, Jacki Tibbs, Claire Leybourne and Erika Johnston, who generously shared their knowledge and experiences with the students.
We also acknowledge the forward‑thinking leadership of QUT’s department heads, lecturers and tutors – including Fiona Cheung – who continue to create meaningful connections between industry and education. Support from organisations such as Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) further strengthens these partnerships and helps ensure the industry’s future capability.
Investing in the Future of Our Industry
There is no shortage of talent emerging in South East Queensland. The quality, curiosity and enthusiasm shown by these students reinforces just how capable the next generation of professionals will be. Before long, they’ll be delivering key infrastructure and shaping the iconic construction projects of our region.
Alder is proud to play a role in developing future construction leaders – because at the end of the day, it’s the people who make construction happen.
