Over the summer, I had the opportunity to spend 12 weeks working as a Quantity Surveyor Intern with Lochwynd Ltd, a specialist in the eco-traffic industry, through the Saltire Scholars Programme. Coming from a computing and project-focused background, this was my first step into the eco-traffic and civil infrastructure sector. It was a completely new environment for me, but one I was eager to explore, learn from, and contribute to.
The experience turned out to be both challenging and rewarding. I worked on a wide variety of projects, ranging from supplier analysis to supporting commercial reviews. Two that stood out the most were developing a Microsoft Power App purchase dashboard, which streamlined procurement and improved visibility across purchasing processes, and working on 4D BIM modelling, where I created real-based traffic and civil site models that could be explored in 3D. Alongside this, I also had the opportunity to explore alternative supplier options to reduce costs, as well as assist with RFQs, CVRs, and rate card reviews. Each project gave me practical insights into how technology and quantity surveying intersect, and how they can be used to improve efficiency and deliver real-world results in the eco-traffic industry.
What I valued most was how much I was able to learn in such a short space of time. Since this was my first time working in this industry, much of the work was completely new to me, which meant adapting quickly and picking up knowledge on the job. It pushed me outside of my comfort zone but in the best way possible, giving me the confidence to approach new challenges with an open mindset.
Beyond the technical skills, this internship helped me develop as a professional. I learned the importance of collaboration and communication within a team, how to think critically about problem-solving, and how innovative approaches can shape the future of sustainable infrastructure. On a personal level, it gave me the confidence to embrace change, trust in my ability to learn, and see how the skills I’ve developed so far can be applied across different industries.
I would strongly recommend the Saltire Scholars Programme to anyone considering it. It is much more than just an internship. It’s a platform to grow, to connect with like-minded individuals, and to gain exposure to new industries and ways of thinking. The lessons, opportunities, and community you gain through this programme are invaluable. For me, it has been a transformative experience that I’ll carry forward into the next stage of my journey, and I believe others would benefit from it just as much.
