RMIT alumni build success in the construction industry

Piercy was recently honoured with the Noel Henderson Award, an annual accolade presented by Probuild to its most outstanding graduate of 2014.

Probuild. responsible for numerous large national developments, recognised Piercy for his commitment, determination and consistency.

Piercy, currently working as a Project Coordinator at Probuild, began his foray into the industry while still a student at RMIT.

During his final year of a Bachelor of Applied Science (Construction Management), he was selected for a Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) placement at RMIT’s Property Services in its Projects department, an area responsible for managing the planning, design and construction of facilities for the University community.

In this role, he managed a range of minor works projects across the University’s City campus – from computer lab refurbishments to mechanical upgrades and general enhancements of spaces around the campus.

Piercy said he found the experience invaluable in preparing for the workforce.

“This experience allowed me to hone my communication skills while working with various trades.

“Completing my degree and working at RMIT simultaneously helped me to develop critical time management skills that I use to this day,” he said.

Passionate about developing his experience within the industry, he’s currently working on the Marina Tower project, a mixed-use development in Melbourne’s Docklands. Piercy is not the first Property, Construction and Project Management (PCPM) student to be recognised as an outstanding graduate.

He follows closely in the footsteps of fellow alumni Alex Kino, Mark James and Peter Fairburn who all completed WIL placements within Property Services, followed by successful selection into Probuild’s graduate program.

Senior Manager of Annual Works at RMIT Nandor Bartol said the WIL program at Property Services was an ideal launching pad for students to further their careers by gaining experience of project management processes and enhancing their technical skills supported and guided by senior industry professionals

“We are proud to have provided the building blocks for RMIT alumni to succeed in the construction industry. It’s a delight talking on WIL students each year, and watching them gather the experience and necessary tools to excel in the workforce,” he said.

Property Services currently offers two annual WIL placements for RMIT students, and two graduate placements within the Annual Works team.

More than 1080 higher education programs at RMIT include a WIL component.