From dual study program to quantity surveyor: Sandro's path at STRABAG

What does a typical working day look like for you and what tasks do you carry out as at?

Sandro: Basically, I take care of the accounting for the work carried out and check measurements and invoices from subcontractors. I also talk to the teams on site and record the services digitally. One advantage of this is that I work directly in the construction office on the construction site for large-scale projects, which means that the distances are short.

At the end of the month, the mass determinations are invoiced. In my role, I act as an interface with the client through regular meetings. Roughly speaking, I work 70 percent from the office and 30 percent on the construction site. It's nice that you can always see what you've achieved at the end of the month.

What skills make a good quantity surveyor?

Sandro: You should definitely have an affinity for IT, as we work a lot with digital tools. Excel is also a good friend in everyday working life.
What definitely helps is a structured and organized way of working - both on the technical side with work and documentation as well as in the personal area, keyword time management.

As a quantity surveyor you sit at the interface between the client, construction site and subcontractors, strong communication skills and perseverance are skills that definitely help you.

Are there any particular challenges or highlights in your work so far that have shaped you?

Sandro: The variety of projects is a highlight: whether it's during my studies when I was building an air traffic area on the apron at BER airport, or afterwards on highway renovations.
Another highlight is the team: interaction and cohesion are very good, people look out for each other. It's like a small construction site family. I enjoy going to work every day!

The professional and personal development that I have achieved through projects and further training, also with the support of great mentors, is also important to me here. Overall, you have a lot of opportunities for professional development.

One particular point where I was able to learn a lot was when I took over site management for the first time on a night shift for concrete paving on the A9 freeway, which involved unexpected and exciting situations.

You currently work as an quantity surveyor, but how did you come to start a dual study program at STRABAG?

Sandro: My goal has always been to work in construction and project management. STRABAG was always present here, e.g. through large construction sites in my region. I deliberately chose the field of major projects and the civil engineering and road construction major. As soon as I started my studies, it was clear to me that it was the right choice.

Would you recommend the dual study program to others?

Sandro: Definitely. It's a good way into a career, as theory and practice are closely interlinked right from the start. For example, I was able to quickly learn how a construction site works in practice - in my case, I worked on a flight operations area during my studies. I then also dealt with this project in my thesis.

Another advantage is that you get to know the company and many of your colleagues well. As a result, you are already networked by the time you graduate and have a good basis for your future career.

As a quantity surveyor, I am now in the perfect position to gain a lot of valuable experience in the field of construction management. You also get an experienced colleague at your side as a mentor. The next step, if you wish, is to take over site management, e.g. on a highway construction site. As already mentioned, there are many opportunities and ways to develop within the company.

What tips would you give to someone who is thinking about starting a dual study program at STRABAG?

Sandro: In a nutshell: Do it, stick with it and stay motivated even during the more difficult phases of your studies, because the result is definitely worth it! It's also important to find the right specialization that interests you. Of course, the dual study program is more challenging than a traditional degree course, but you receive a salary and work equipment, for example.

Thanks for your exciting insights and have fun and good luck!