Construction Careers Uncovered, Vickie Oni’s Journey and Advice

The construction industry is fast-paced, dynamic, and constantly evolving. But what does a typical day look like for a project manager in this sector?

To mark Apprenticeship Week in the UK, we caught up with Vickie Oni, a project manager based in London, to get an insight into her role, career journey, and advice for aspiring professionals.

For Vickie, a career in construction wasn’t something she initially planned. She was introduced to the industry by a former manager who brought her on board for a major NHS project. Despite not having a construction-related degree, Vickie’s background in logistics meant that many of her skills were easily transferrable.

“I took relevant courses, and the rest is history,” she shares. “Construction is a long-lasting and rewarding career. There will always be a need for it. I also noticed the lack of females and ethnic minorities in the sector, which made me want to go for it all the more.”

A Typical Day, Problem-Solving and Stakeholder Management

So, what does a day in the life of a project manager look like? No two days are ever the same, but for Vickie, a large part of her day involves liaising with clients and contractors. 

Regular check-ins are essential to keeping projects on track, resolving any challenges that arise, and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders. Meetings, both in-person and virtual, form another key aspect of her role. Whether she is chairing discussions or attending as part of the project team, these sessions help align all parties and drive progress.

Her role demands a high level of organisation and the ability to multitask efficiently. Strong communication skills are essential, as she is constantly engaging with different stakeholders. A keen eye for detail, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to build lasting relationships all contribute to her success. Given the fast-moving and sometimes unpredictable nature of the industry, remaining calm under pressure is an invaluable skill.

And, of course, one of the most critical aspects of her job is "putting out fires on site"—though, as Vickie humorously clarifies, “not literally!”

Overcoming Challenges, A High-Rise Fire Remediation Project

One of the projects Vickie is currently working on is a fire remediation project for a high-rise building in Croydon. The last nine months have been a whirlwind, full of challenges that have tested her problem-solving skills and resilience.

“I’m proud of the team I’m working alongside to overcome the very tough obstacles that come with a project like this, especially at a time like now,” she says. With another 18 months to go, she remains committed to delivering results alongside her team.

The Most Rewarding Part of the Job

For Vickie, the most fulfilling aspect of her role is the sense of accomplishment that comes at the end of a project.

“Knowing that you have contributed to the development of society in some way is incredibly rewarding,” she explains. Whether it’s a hospital, a residential building, or infrastructure that improves communities, project managers play a crucial role in shaping the built environment.

Advice for Young Aspiring Professionals, Take Risks and Keep Learning

For those considering a career in construction, Vickie’s advice is clear: take risks.

Stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing new challenges is the best way to grow. The industry is vast, and there are countless opportunities to develop and refine your skills.

She encourages aspiring professionals to never stop learning. Expanding your skill set and actively seeking new experiences will not only increase your knowledge but also build confidence. In an industry that thrives on collaboration, networking is equally important. Making connections with professionals in the field can open doors to opportunities that might not otherwise be available.

“The more experiences you gain, the more knowledge you acquire, which ultimately builds your confidence and your professional network,” she says. Taking the initiative to seek out opportunities, rather than waiting for them to appear, is one of the key lessons she has learned in her career.

Vickie’s journey into project management is a testament to how transferable skills, determination, and a willingness to learn can open doors in the construction industry. Her passion for the sector, commitment to problem-solving, and drive to support diversity make her a standout professional.

For those thinking about a career in construction, her story is a reminder that opportunities are there for those who seek them—and that taking the leap can lead to a truly rewarding career.

Get in touch today to explore how we can support your apprenticeship journey. 

Watts Group Limited
+44 (0)207 280 8000
london@watts.co.uk