Charlie Nash, a project manager with K2 Construction Management, has graduated from Solent University with a First-Class Honours degree in Construction Management, alongside receiving the CIOB Certificate of Excellence for achieving the highest overall grade in his cohort.
The achievement, marked at a graduation ceremony in July, brings to a close his five-year apprenticeship.
Reflecting on the milestone, Charlie said the graduation provided an opportunity to step back and appreciate the journey, rather than “moving straight on to the next deadline, project or goal”.
He also paid tribute to the colleagues, lecturers, friends and family who had supported him throughout his studies, recognising their encouragement, guidance and support.
Charlie said he was proud to have completed the apprenticeship and reach a milestone that marked an important stage in his construction career.
Nash’s father, CIOB past president Paul Nash FCIOB, said the achievement represented the opportunities the sector offers young people. “Stories like Charlie’s underline the opportunities that a career in construction can offer to young people, and the support that CIOB continues to provide through its accreditation of recognised degrees such as those provided by Solent University.
“But this is just the beginning, and for Charlie and all those who are starting out in their careers in the industry, membership of the CIOB remains the benchmark for professionalism in construction management. One of the privileges of being a CIOB past president is that you get to welcome new members and present them with their certificates when they graduate… now that would be special.”
Charlie said securing CIOB membership status is part of his plans. “My next steps include continuing to develop the skills I learnt throughout the apprenticeship, and I’m currently working towards my MCIOB chartership.”
