'Why my training will help serve the industry I love'

Clerk of Works at RSK Group company FR Consultants Nigel Dyer will play a pivotal role in assessing and evaluating new applicants seeking Institute of Clerks of Work Construction Inspectorate (ICWCI) membership after completing his member assessor training. This investment in professional development allows him to make a valuable contribution to the institute while strengthening its relationship with FR Consultants.

Nigel’s career in construction began in 1982, and his 40-plus years in the industry have seen him undertake everything from bricklaying and general building to roofing and site management. He joined FR Consultants in 2021 as Clerk of Works lead, a role that involves ensuring projects are resourced and liaising with directors and sales teams to deliver services to clients.

The Institute of Clerks of Works and Construction Inspectorate

Before his appointment at FR Consultants, Nigel was accepted as a member of the ICWCI, and since then his role with the institute has expanded.

“At the time I joined the institute, I was required to submit my qualifications and CV before being interviewed by a panel of three existing members of the local meeting group, known as the Southern Chapter. Upon acceptance, I joined the chapter and became actively involved in the group, which culminated in putting myself forward for chairman. I was elected to the post in February 2021 and have been in the role ever since.

“My responsibilities include running the monthly meeting, passing down relevant information from the institute and, along with the secretary, arranging regular continuous professional development presentations. I am a great believer that if you are involved with something, you should take an active part, and so it was natural for me to seek a leadership role within the chapter.”

All of Nigel’s duties within the ICWCI are carried out voluntarily, either in his own time or occasionally during working hours. Since Nigel joined the institute, assessments have become much more in depth and are carried out on a national level. As a result, only those holding Member or Fellow status can become assessors and are required to complete a training day at the institute’s headquarters in Peterborough.

“FR Consultants really supported me in undertaking this course and enabled me to complete it during work hours, as well as allowing me to use its offices for Southern Chapter meetings. It is comforting to know that my employer is supportive of the ICWCI and recognises the benefits of employing members.”

The value of professional bodies

Having had so much involvement in the institute, Nigel knows first-hand how professional bodies have an impact not only on career development but also on businesses, clients and professions.

“Being a member of an industry-recognised institute is of great value to me and FR Consultants. Having MICWCI status provides both clients and fellow professionals the peace of mind that I’m experienced and knowledgeable and will add value to any project team.

“This is achieved by highlighting any issues as they arise and working collaboratively with all stakeholders to rectify problems, which in turn avoids costly re-work and delays. Becoming an assessor means that I will now play a role in ensuring there are enough Clerks of Works to serve the industry we love and help to raise standards, both of which are crucial.

“I will continue to build the Clerk of Works team at FR Consultants as the company grows and demand increases. This will involve embracing technology to help us be more efficient whilst not losing touch with our experience and knowledge. I’m also putting myself forward to serve on the leadership board of ICWCI, as well as maintaining my role as an assessor and participating in local chapter meetings.”