Surveying the Future: Hassan Ahmed's Journey into Teaching Civil Engineering in Further Education

After years of working in the construction sector, I never thought I'd end up teaching in FE. Although I knew it was an option, it wasn’t something I initially considered. From a young age, I was focused on getting the right qualifications to work in the construction industry. I started with a BTEC and an HND, then moved on to a degree in Construction Management. Alongside my studies, I gained experience through work placements and industry roles, developing a real passion for refurbishment projects. My love for the sector eventually made me want to give something back.

I reached out to my old FE teacher, who mentioned the growing need for educators in the field. I then did a work placement in a college, and that experience really cemented my commitment to teaching in FE. Many people don't realise that prior teaching qualifications or an academic degree are not always needed to start teaching in FE. Completing my teacher training on the job while teaching in FE, was convenient for me, and meant that I could start earning straight away.

Moving from working in the construction industry to teaching in FE has been a big change, but it’s allowed me to shape the next generation of workers in the sector. My passion for the role, along with the chance to keep working in the industry, has made this transition fulfilling.

There are a wide range of construction courses that can be taught in FE. These include courses in construction management, civil engineering, refurbishment projects, and site inspection. My experience in drone surveying allows me to bring real-world scenarios into my lessons. Having industry skills and experience is so valuable when teaching in FE and means that I can explain how drone technology can be used for site inspections and surveying with real anecdotes. The real-world experience I bring to my lessons always grabs the attention of my students and makes the theoretical aspects of their education more tangible and engaging.

Staying connected to the industry by still working in it means I continuously update my knowledge and skills, and I think it’s one of the traits that makes a good FE teacher. The flexible nature of FE teaching positions allows me to teach alongside my part-time role in drone surveying, allowing me to work in industry alongside my teaching role. This flexibility means I can continue to inspire others without changing my career.

Teaching in FE is incredibly rewarding. Seeing students develop their skills and passion for civil engineering is one of the highlights of this job. Building relationships with my students and seeing their hard work as they launch their careers is incredibly rewarding. Seeing my students evolve from eager learners to confident professionals in the field I've taught them is a powerful testament to the impact of good education and mentorship.

Further education is key to the future of our industry. It tackles the shortage of skilled professionals and keeps our vital infrastructure projects moving forward. As an FE teacher, I get to play a big part in this. If you have real-world industry experience and a passion for sharing your skills, you could make a great further education teacher. It's a rewarding way to make a real difference. Don't miss out on the chance to share your expertise where it matters most. Click here for more information on teaching in FE.