Students at Bond University will receive invaluable guidance from some of Australia’s top industry leaders as part of a new construction mentorship opportunity.
The ADCO Excellence program aims to bridge the gap between academia and real-world expertise, enhancing construction students’ educational journey and preparing them for the actual challenges of the industry.
As part of their studies, senior students will have the chance to experience the inner workings of one of Australia’s most prominent building companies as established experts guide them through their training in several construction management roles.
A solid foundation for career success
The partnership will help ensure students are well-prepared for future careers in various building industry management roles, including construction managers, project managers, estimators, design managers, project engineers, and contract administrators.
Bond University Bachelor of Construction Management and Quantity Surveying student Joshua Williams, told Build-it he was thrilled to be a part of the ADCO program.
“Any university blending the real world with the classroom is setting a solid foundation for its students,” he said.
“This initiative offers invaluable hands-on experience and industry insights, which will undoubtedly better equip me for success in the construction industry.”
Bond University Construction Discipline Lead Dane Miller says giving students an authentic feel for their future industry was a priceless opportunity.
“You can’t buy that exposure and experience that this program will offer,” he said.
“I can’t encourage students strongly enough to apply to be part of this program and to get as much as they possibly can from it.”
ADCO Queensland state manager Michael Rinaudo echoed the importance of mentorship for students looking to get their careers off to a flying start.
“Having a mentor who can provide advice and guidance is valuable – not just in your university years, but after you graduate and throughout your career,” he said.
“I’m still mentoring people now, both inside and outside of the business, and the opportunities it can provide are endless.”
“We’re very excited about this partnership and the potential value of connecting students with mentors,” he said.
Professor Miller expressed the importance of giving students a taste of their future roles as part of their education and construction training.
“We want to provide transformational experiences to our students and let them feel, see, and touch how things happen in the industry, not just learn about them in class.”
“Opportunities like this make a difference to our students’ industry to ensure students are well equipped for the workplace.”
All students will benefit from the university’s partnership with ADCO, with the company’s management team hosting many guest lectures throughout the year.
Meanwhile, newly enrolled students will receive a range of new safety equipment, including a hard hat, hi-vis vest, and safety goggles, courtesy of the partnership.
Eligible undergraduate and postgraduate students can apply to participate in the ADCO Excellence Mentoring Program in the latter semesters of their studies.
The ADCO mentorship program will commence in early 2024.
