Building a future in the built environment

Now in her third year at Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University, Brooke reflects on the significant event and how it shaped the trajectory of her life.

“It was the first time I felt intrigued by the built environment, and I found myself wanting to know more about it – how buildings can be designed to be resilient in such extreme events and how communities are affected when they aren’t.”

Growing up in Rotorua and attending John Paul College, Brooke says the move to study at Massey’s Auckland campus was a huge step.

“Moving to a big city was a big change, but I found the Auckland campus perfect for me. Massey helped me to transition from high school to university life seamlessly. My experience in the degree has been great. I’ve made some amazing friends and been taught by wonderful lecturers.”

Brooke has particularly enjoyed the hands-on learning experiences within her degree, including a memorable project involving designing and constructing a popsicle stick water tower.

“I really enjoyed working on this, and found it a great visual way to learn about load paths, how weight travels through a structure down to the ground, and structural behaviour. I’ve developed a lot of practical skills and am most proud of growing my knowledge of building materials and increasing my capability in using Building Information Modelling software, which is essential in the modern construction industry.”

She says an often overlooked aspect of construction management is the strong emphasis on soft skills.

“Success in this field doesn’t require knowing everything from the outset, but you do need to be willing to learn, collaborate effectively and maintain a positive mindset.”

Looking to the future, Brooke hopes to contribute her skills to projects that benefit communities in meaningful ways.

“I want to be in the rooms where planning and decision-making around infrastructure take place to improve communities, and to incorporate more sustainability practices wherever possible. If I can work on infrastructure that makes everyday life easier for people, then I’ll have done my job.”

For those considering a path in the built environment, Brooke’s advice is captured in the quote: “Life is like a disco. Even when the music stops, just keep dancing.”

“The built environment is always evolving, that’s why it’s exciting. New technology, sustainability, innovation, regulations, and community needs changing rapidly, just like music at a disco,” Brooke explains.

“My advice is to be prepared to keep moving with the rhythm, even when changes happen unexpectedly. Don’t freeze when you come across something unfamiliar or challenging. Adapt, be flexible and know that it’s okay to ask for help – it’s all part of the learning process. If you keep that mindset, you can navigate those changes and come out stronger.”

Interested in becoming a highly sought-after construction professional and making an impact across the built environment? Learn about the Bachelor of Construction.