At the NZ Institute of Building we want to support the Next Generation of the Building Industry. We know it’s tough to be a student right now and that for many, money is tight. We want to help relieve a little of that stress for one of our Next Gen members.
We are travelling the country to give students the chance to impress us with their passion and nab a $2,000 NZIOB scholarship. We have asked students studying in the built environment to prepare a ‘shark tank’ style pitch where they talk about their passion, a project, or even just themselves.
The main aim is to show our ‘sharks’ their potential and their passion for the industry.
Grace Budge secured one of these $2,000 scholarships with her pitch at our event in Ara in Ōtautahi | Christchurch on 19 July.
We asked Grace a few questions to get to know her better. We look forward to keeping in touch with her and seeing her reach her goals.
Read on to get to know Grace.
Grace Budge at 'Shark Tank' event
Name: Grace Budge
Studying: Bachelor of Construction (Construction Management)
Work: I currently am contracting for Fletcher Living as a Project Assistant
Tell us about yourself - what were you doing before your studies?
I was fresh out of high school back in 2018 and went straight in tertiary education at Lincoln University partaking in a BCom. I did that for a year and decided it wasn't for me. I decided to take a break from study to get an idea of what I really wanted to do. I worked all through school and then in my break from study, I worked in hospitality, retail and did work experience for a dog care facility which I still do now when I can. I then completed a certificate in project management which lead me into my current studies now.
What made you go into your field of study?
Originally, I did a project management certificate because I wanted to do event management. After completing this I wanted something that would be more of a challenge and take me out of my comfort zone. I also found an interest in the construction sector working in retail at a tools shop engaging with tradies as well as being inspired by my stepdad who works in the industry as well.
Who inspires you and why?
As cheesy as it sounds my family. My parents and older brother are the strongest minded and driven people I know. Constantly pushing themselves to reach their goals no matter how hard life gets. Maintaining mental health is a massive part of my family and when the glass is becoming a bit empty, we all come together and motivate each other to push through.
What do you do in your spare time (if you have any)?
This year I've been trying to have more of a balance between my personal life and studying/working. So, I've picked up playing netball again which I've been loving. As well as making more of an effort to get out and catch up with friends when I can.
What do you find interesting/appealing about the building industry?
That the industry has so many benefits to communities no matter how small or big that might be. “Turning nothing into something” – from turning a pile of organic material into some sort of infrastructure to increase employment, housing and entertainment facilities. As well as how today's society is so technologically advanced there something about knowing that us as humans can use our skills and labour to create these infrastructures is something that brings me drive and ambition towards the industry.
What would you like to see change in the building industry?
- More mental health & wellbeing assistance and prevention plans
- Reduction in waste and increase in recycling and reusing of materials
What kind of role would you love to do in the construction industry?
I think the big goal is to be a construction manager in the commercial sides of the industry potentially overseas. Right now, I hope to get a project managers role nearing the completion of my degree.
What do you plan to do with your $2,000 scholarship?
The money will go towards my student loan as well as savings towards an overseas holiday for when I graduate.
