From the lecture theatre to the building site
Michel, why don’t you introduce yourself briefly? Who are you and how did you end up at STRABAG?
Michel:I’m originally from Geestland, near Bremerhaven. I got into the construction industry through family connections and initially trained as a stonemason.
During my apprenticeship, I realised that, as well as the practical side of the trade, I was particularly interested in planning and the technical aspects. That’s why I went on to study civil engineering at the Technical University of Braunschweig. At the same time, I was able to gain practical experience at various engineering firms. I finally completed my bachelor’s degree in March.
After that, it was clear to me that I wanted to return to my home region. So I looked for work in the Bremerhaven area and eventually ended up at STRABAG.
Why did you choose STRABAG and how has your start to your career been so far?
Michel: I’d already heard of STRABAG whilst I was at university. When you’re studying civil engineering, it’s virtually impossible to avoid coming across the name
.
The deciding factor, however, was above all the feeling I got during the interview. It was made clear to me
right away that, as a new graduate, you don’t have to know everything and that you’ll be given time to settle in. I was also impressed by the career development opportunities and training programmes on offer.
The first few weeks were really exciting. The first week mainly consisted of e-learning modules, getting to know the systems and internal processes.
After that, I went straight out onto the building site. Since then, I’ve been learning something new every day and am gradually being given more responsibility.
You’re currently working as a site manager in infrastructure and transport network construction. What’s your typical working day like, and what are you working on at the moment?
Michel: My week is currently split between days on site and days in the office. On site, I usually start the morning by checking my emails and then discuss with the teams on site what needs to be done and what challenges we’re facing.
During the day, I spend a lot of time out and about, liaising with the foremen and work crews, coordinating operations and keeping an eye on the project’s progress.
I’m currently working on the Hulsberg district in Bremen. A new residential neighbourhood is being built there, and we’re constructing the infrastructure and transport links for it. The project is very exciting because it brings together so many different requirements – from road and sewer construction to liaising with various stakeholders in the local area.
Who do you work with in this role, and what skills does a site manager need?
Michel: At the moment, I’m mainly in contact with our foremen, the road and sewer construction teams, as well as external suppliers and engineering firms. It brings together a lot of different people and tasks.
That’s why, for me, communication is the most important skill of all. You have to be able to approach people, pass on information and, at times, have difficult conversations. At the same time, you need
the ability to stand your ground and mustn’t be afraid to take on responsibility.
How did you find your induction and what have been the biggest challenges so far?
Michel: Overall, I found my induction a positive experience. I was made to feel very welcome and received support at all times. Of course, there are a great many new programmes, processes and procedures that you first have to get to grips with.
The biggest challenge for me at the moment is drawing on the knowledge I gained during my degree and applying it to specific projects. At university, you learn a lot for exams, but on a building site you suddenly have to put that knowledge into practice. It’s demanding, but that’s exactly what makes the job so exciting.
What are your goals for the future?
Michel: At the moment, my main priority is to get settled, gain experience and learn as much as possible. Of course, there are plenty of exciting career opportunities at STRABAG – including internationally. But for now, my focus is very clearly on my current project.
In the long term, I’m looking forward to eventually taking charge of my own project and seeing it through from start to finish.
What advice would you give to students starting out in their careers?
Michel: Once you’ve finished your studies, take a moment to think about what you really want to do. The construction industry offers an incredible range of opportunities – from planning and structural engineering right through to site management.
And above all: ask questions. Especially at the start, you can’t ask enough questions.
To round off: What has been your personal highlight at STRABAG so far?
Michel: Apart from the exciting project and all the new experiences, it’s definitely the location of my first building site. I’m a huge Werder Bremen fan and am currently working in the Hulsberg district, right near the Weserstadion. The fact that I’ve been able to work on a project right next to the stadium right at the start of my career naturally makes it all a bit more special. It makes you feel right at home straight away.
Thank you very much for the fascinating insights into your career path, Michel. We wish you all the best for the future!