Jackson Stone’s journey to Barhale began with his hands-on start in construction. Working as a labourer at his brother’s company, he discovered a passion for the industry. “Helping out on his projects sparked my interest,” he recalls, “and I realised this was the career path I wanted.” Pursuing Quantity Surveying at the University of Wolverhampton, Jackson found the ideal blend of practical experience and academic growth with Barhale, joining as a Trainee Quantity Surveyor alongside his studies.

A Promising Opportunity with Barhale

Jackson was drawn to Barhale’s Values, especially their ‘Investors in People’ accreditation. “The Barhale website left a strong impression on me,” he explains. “It felt like a supportive and friendly place that valued employee growth, which made me excited to join.” His instinct was spot-on. Since joining, Jackson has progressed from Trainee to Assistant Quantity Surveyor, taking on increasingly complex projects.

The Role of an Assistant Quantity Surveyor 

In his day-to-day responsibilities, Jackson manages contract administration, overseeing both upstream and downstream contracts. His focus on cost management, change control and early warnings keeps projects on budget and any risks well-communicated. “Every day is different, which keeps me engaged,” he shares. His role also involves processing subcontractor applications and submitting Barhale’s own applications to clients, a varied role that supports his development.

Guidance and Mentorship

Mentorship has been a vital aspect of Jackson’s growth. His line manager, Matthew Chappell, provides ongoing guidance. “Matthew is a great mentor,” Jackson says. “He is approachable and experienced, so I feel well-supported in tackling new challenges.” With Matthew’s support, Jackson is making steady progress toward his goal of becoming a full-fledged Quantity Surveyor by next year.

“Jackson has shown great progression since starting his career with Barhale. He possesses a great attitude and willingness to learn, coupled with an enthusiasm to take on new challenges. He has quickly developed into a valuable member of our team and we hope to see a continuation of this growth in the years to come!”  – Matthew Chappell (Managing Quantity Surveyor, Northern Region)

Project Highlights and Career Milestones

Jackson’s time at Barhale has seen him contribute to a number of impactful projects. One standout experience was a design and early contractor involvement (ECI) contract in the southern region, working alongside stakeholders like HS2 and Affinity Water. “It was fascinating to be part of the design phase,” he notes. Another memorable project involved tunnelling work at Manchester MRI Infirmary. He has also worked on a £2.1 million project in Burton Lazars, giving him valuable experience in high-value project management.

Reflecting on Personal Growth

When asked what superpower he’d choose, Jackson’s answer reflects his organised approach: “I’d want to stop time. Having a few extra moments to organise things, especially when work is busy, would be amazing.” His choice reveals a practical mindset and commitment to meeting the demands of his role.

A Positive Recommendation for Barhale

For anyone considering a career in civil engineering, Jackson’s recommendation is clear. “Barhale is committed to investing in its people, and the Northern Region team is friendly and supportive,” he says. “It’s an ideal place to learn and grow, with plenty of opportunities for development.” With Barhale’s commitment to staff growth and a supportive team culture, Jackson Stone’s journey continues to be one full of promise.