Ryan Hummer
Bachelor of Environments: Construction

I chose the Bachelor of Environments because I wanted to become involved in estimating. It was a field that I unexpectedly found that I enjoyed. This degree catered for this work and I was happy to do it.

I decided to major in construction because it was a helpful degree for me since it integrated so many of my interests into one field of study. I was able to work across architecture, law, and finance as well as my chosen field. The work was also highly practical and easy to apply.

My favourite subjects were Project Planning Studio, since I finally was able to apply the skills I had accumulated. Concrete Construction and Structures, since I was learning useful construction applications, and Design Cost Management, since it was my introduction into the field of estimating

To me, studying at the University of Melbourne meant getting ready for the industry and meeting good mates along the way as it is as much about the experience. I was able to meet a great cross section of people in my work over the years and I really enjoyed getting to know them all. It also meant learning to be able to be adaptable in many situations that I would not be prepared for elsewhere.

My advice to new students is get out there as much as you can, get as much exposure to the work and the people involved in the industry. It is important to get to know as many people as possible and get a good feel for the work. University cannot fully prepare you for the construction industry so try to get as much work in as you can to get a feel for it.

I am looking forward to being an experienced estimator in my field and working on many different high profile jobs. The dynamic nature of the industry is what attracted me to it in the first place and I look forward to never getting the same job twice.

The BEnvs helped prepare me for essentially all my work in the industry to this point.

Words that sum me up are: Diligent, Driven Curious, Ambitious

My personal motto is… Life is far too important to be taken seriously.

I will do graduate study in Construction Management because I need it for qualification, and I do not want to leave yet.

It will be different studying at graduate level because you are learning more application than just theory.

In my Masters I am looking forward to more engineering application and cost management subjects.

What inspires you at Uni? The possibility that I will be able to do more.

RYAN IS NOW WORKING IN THE INDUSTRY

What do you do? I am a quantity surveyor for McConnell Dowell Construction

How did you find your job? Through a friend

Recently I have been working on the Regional Rail Link, The M80 ring road refurbishment, the BOC cryogen plant extension, and the Kestrel Mine extension in Queensland

What inspires you at work? Being involved in large projects will bring about change.

The future of the industry seems booming, with a lot of opportunities.

My greatest achievement so far is being involved in the aforementioned projects and adapting to my life here.