Collaborating to shape the future of construction and infrastructure
VolkerFitzpatrick is one of the UK’s leading engineering and construction companies, delivering major projects across rail, highways, aviation, and commercial sectors. Since 2019, Nottingham Trent University (NTU) and VolkerFitzpatrick have developed a strategic partnership focused on enhancing student employability, strengthening industry-academic collaboration, and developing future talent for the built environment sector.
The partnership brings education and industry closer together through placements, site visits, project-based learning, and knowledge exchange, all designed to support a more inclusive, skilled, and work-ready construction workforce.
Developing the next generation of industry professionals
NTU and VolkerFitzpatrick work together to offer students valuable exposure to real-world industry practice. A highlight of the partnership is ‘A Week in the Life of a Quantity Surveyor’, an immersive programme that gives final-year Quantity Surveying students insight into live projects, shadowing opportunities, and mentoring from industry professionals. The initiative helps students bridge academic learning with practical experience and gain a deeper understanding of their future careers.
The partnership also supports student placements and celebrates success through NTU’s Industry Placement Awards, which recognise the achievements of both students and employer partners. VolkerFitzpatrick has hosted students on active infrastructure projects, providing meaningful experience that supports career readiness.
Alumni impact
The partnership reflects the strength of NTU’s apprenticeship routes into industry.
Hayden Scarth graduated from the Quantity Surveying & Commercial Management Apprenticeship in 2022 and now works as a Senior Quantity Surveyor at VolkerFitzpatrick. His progression highlights how collaborative education pathways can accelerate professional development and long-term sector impact.
Supporting our students
The partnership enhances the student experience through a range of employer-led activity. VolkerFitzpatrick has hosted visits for second-year students from Construction Management and Quantity Surveying courses, including site tours at Midlands Logistics Park, offering a close-up view of large-scale delivery and logistics in action.
The company also supports NTU’s Women in the Built Environment initiative, helping inspire and empower future professionals from diverse backgrounds. In 2023, the partnership contributed to alumni engagement activity, as NTU welcomed back Civil Engineering graduates for a 40-year reunion, celebrating careers across the sector including those now working at VolkerFitzpatrick.
Get in touch
We are always looking for new ways to collaborate. If you are interested in working with NTU to develop talent, support entrepreneurship, or access academic expertise, get in touch.