While studying the Level 3 DEC Diploma at Cronton College, Trevor thought his future might lie in architecture. That changed when DEC introduced him to another part of the built environment he had never seriously considered.

During a practical ‘Survey School’ week, Trevor was given his first insight into a geospatial surveying career. The experience sparked an immediate interest. Just a few after meeting professionals from Topcon Positioning GB, the organisation offered him an apprenticeship, a great opportunity to continue learning while gaining hands-on experience.

Trevor is a student member of the Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors and Regional Chair for their Tomorrow’s Leaders Committee.

His story shows how DEC can help students discover careers they may never have considered, connecting classroom learning with real industry pathways and opening doors to future employment and opportunities.

“The main reason why I studied DEC is because I knew I wanted to be in the construction sector, but I wasn’t sure which was the best job role for me. In DEC you study a wide range of different sectors. This is how I managed to find out about surveying and what it involves as a job role.”

“The first thing I learnt is that it’s not just total stations! There’s so much more to Topcon and that was one of the first things I said after I joined – that I wanted to know about all solutions and every area of the business. I’ve already had a real mix of experience, including the sales side of things, service and repair, and I’ve even helped with a bit of accounting.

Next stop, machine control and paving – exciting positioning technology on major earthworks projects!

The best thing I’ve learnt is that I’ve got so much more to learn. Every door I’ve opened on the geopositioning side reveals loads more to open elsewhere, which is really exciting.”

“My plan is to stay with Topcon, because this allows for me to learn about the newest technology in surveying. I would also like to progress within my career and learn more about different applications in surveying like mass data capture and machine control.”

“Some advice I always give to students, is to be confident and to ask questions because someone always knows something you don’t. Also, be eager for whatever you want to achieve and look out for opportunities because they are almost never handed to you on a plate.”