Early Career Advice/Help
Hi everyone, just looking for some advice from people already working in QS/commercial roles.
I’ve just turned 18 and I’ve completed my first year of a Quantity Surveying degree, but I’ve now been offered a QS apprenticeship with Clancy Group (Clancy Docwra).
From what I can see, they work mainly in utilities/infrastructure, water, power, energy and civils frameworks, so I’d probably get exposure to NEC contracts, live infrastructure projects, commercial management, valuations, subcontractors, etc.
My dilemma is whether I should take this opportunity now or stay at university another year and try again for a Tier 1 contractor apprenticeship/graduate role. I know Tier 1s are usually seen as more prestigious and maybe better for future opportunities, but at the same time real industry experience at 18 seems hard to turn down.
I’m mainly wondering:
• Would starting at a company like Clancy limit my future opportunities compared to starting at a Tier 1?
• How valuable is utilities/infrastructure experience long term?
• Is getting experience early more important than the company “name” at this stage?
• Would it still be relatively easy to move into a Tier 1 later with a few years’ experience?
Would really appreciate honest opinions from people in the industry because I’m genuinely torn on what the smartest move is.