Case studies: Architectural technologist (MCIAT): John West

John graduated with a degree in industrial design and technology from Loughborough University in 2006. He now works as an architectural technologist (MCIAT) for SB Architectural Design, Sheldon Bosley

As part of my degree I completed a placement year where me and a fellow student set up a design company that included works such as architectural visualisations and internal layout and design. By chance we took on a job with my current employer allowing me to show off my design skills, competencies and professionalism.

Before I graduated, the same company advertised for an architectural position for which I applied. I successfully completed the interview stage and secured the job to commence after my graduation.

The degree was not directly linked to architecture; however it is an alternative route as a non-cognitive degree and included modules such as material selection, manufacturing techniques, ergonomics, technical design and construction, all vital areas within this sector.

My degree allowed me to register with the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists where I proceeded to complete my Professional and Occupational Performance (POP) Record over 18 months. This led to a final assessment interview, which I successfully completed in May 2009.

Since becoming Chartered, I've finished the first year of a Masters degree in real estate and management, further progressing my knowledge in the construction field and specifically commercial valuation and property legalities.

My job varies from day to day; however typically I will be preparing plans, creating models and writing specifications for various projects. I am primarily office-based but from time to time I carry out various site construction visits with the client and the contractor. I work on projects from residential and commercial to agricultural and renewable energies, such as wind turbines. The variety of work keeps me on my toes and provides me with a broad range of knowledge of many areas connected to the construction industry.

My role has developed significantly since starting at Sheldon Bosley as I now have greater responsibilities. I am responsible for my own clients and take projects through from conception to completion, liaising with the planning department, building control and contractors along the way.

I get a great feeling of satisfaction when I see a finished project and have successfully taken it through all stages, learning as I go.

The most challenging parts of my job are ensuring that the service I provide to my client is as professional and competent as possible. Whether it is for a small extension or a housing development, the client's needs and requirements come first.

I pride myself in my professionalism and strive to absorb as much knowledge as possible so that I provide this information to my clients.

My advice to other people looking to get into this career is to gain hands-on experience in this sector. This experience and working in practice will help you to determine which area specifically interests you and where you would like to develop your skills.

To be successful in this career, you will need to be able to communicate well as you will be working with other teams and a variety of professionals; you must be able to handle a variety of projects at once while ensuring that all works are delivered to a high standard. You will work with a variety of specialists and engineers and it's important to continually develop your technical knowledge to be able to apply the information you are provided with.