A female graduate is on her way to construction superstardom, thanks to the help of new partnership between Capita and Blackburn College.

Aisha Parveen, 24, graduated from the University Centre at Blackburn College with a BSc (Hons) in Construction (Sustainable Design).

Speaking of her time as a student, she said:“I really enjoyed my time at both the College (studying a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Architecture and Advanced Construction) and the University Centre.

"The tutors are truly dedicated to the students and it was them that arranged a summer work placement for me with Capita.

“The placement got me involved in the surveying of the new Blackburn Bus Station, as well as the bus lanes in and around the town centre. This was my first taste of life in the construction industry and was a great learning experience.”

Asian Image:

Aisha Parveen, Dr Thomas Moore (Principal and Chief Executive, Blackburn College), Paul Carruthers (Head of Studies – Construction, Blackburn College), Nick Hall (Business Development Manager – Blackburn College), Ian Richardson (Regional Director for Capita Local Government), Daniel Sutcliffe.

The partnership between Blackburn College and Capita is a direct response to the skills shortage currently affecting the construction industry and has resulted in a number of University Centre graduates receiving permanent positions with Capita.

Aisha added, “During the application process for my current job, I feel I had a clear advantage over other applicants due to the previous work placement Blackburn College facilitated. Much to my delight, I was successful and officially became a Graduate CAD Technician for Capita.”

She added, “I'm now working on a project in collaboration with the EFA (Education Funding Agency), involving the improvement of schools. Our goal is to ensure these buildings are safe for not only this generation of students, but for generations to come.

“Working on local projects gives me a real sense of pride. It’s a great feeling to be able to transform and improve an area or building that has been a part of your everyday life for as long as you can remember.”

The partnership between Blackburn College and Capita has recently been extended and will provide a minimum of 20 work placements to students enrolled at the College, as well as a number of further employment opportunities for students enrolled on an Apprenticeship.