Winvic whizz-kid: ‘Growing up in Ukraine, construction didn’t appeal to me’

As a T Level student, balancing hands-on experience with academic studies can be hugely demanding. But it’s a challenge that Viktoriia Grachova is taking in her stride.

Last October, the 17-year-old was recognised at the Department for Education’s (DfE) National Apprenticeship and Skills Awards for her confidence, communication skills and problem-solving abilities.

Grachova received the East Midlands T Level Student of the Year award and was shortlisted for the national trophy.

Despite this early career success, her route into construction has been far from conventional.

Originally from Ukraine, Grachova relocated to the UK following the conflict with Russia.

After being displaced from her homeland, the trainee undertook her GCSEs in the UK as the first step towards becoming a construction site engineer.

Grachova secured a placement at Winvic for her Construction: Survey, Design and Planning qualification.

She has also had the opportunity to work on one of the contractor’s most complex projects: the 33-storey purpose-built student accommodation scheme, Crown Place Birmingham. 

“Growing up in Ukraine, construction did not initially appeal to me – I had never thought I would go into this type of career,” Grachova tells CIOB People.

“However, over time I began to notice unique design details in buildings that made me think differently about this field. I became more curious about how buildings are designed to withstand various loads while maintaining an aesthetic appeal.

“When I moved to Europe during the war, I saw buildings with different details, structures and histories [compared to] Ukrainian buildings.

“In the UK, I’ve been impressed by the mix of traditional structures, historical buildings and modern, innovative designs.”

Unfamiliar with typical education routes in the UK, Grachova researched different courses that would allow her to pursue a career in construction.  

“T Levels appealed to me because they provide an opportunity to explore potential careers through hands-on industry placement experience,” she explains.

“I came across the course at Walsall College and was interviewed by Winvic as part of their interview and induction process.

“My T Level placement at Winvic has given me a chance to experience real-world construction and helped me to choose an inspiring career path for the future.

“The T Level programme exceeded my expectations by providing practical experience alongside theoretical education, making the learning process engaging and relatable.”

Grachova’s journey at Winvic began in November 2023. From day one, she has been impressed by the “expertise and professionalism” across the team, she says. “I’m inspired to get to that same level.”

“My goal every day is to listen and learn from the team. They provide me with invaluable insights and enable me to expand my knowledge in the real-world construction environment at Crown Place Birmingham,” she says.

“The welcoming and friendly atmosphere on site makes my development enjoyable, fosters collaboration and creativity, and encourages new ideas.

“The support, mentoring and encouragement from people at all levels and departments has allowed me to grow and develop, making me feel like a true part of the Winvic team.”

During the placement, Grachova has had the opportunity to learn and develop, specifically gaining knowledge and experience with new technologies.  

She has volunteered to work closely with HP SitePrint – an innovative robotic printer that negates the need for manual setting out tasks – and has become one of Winvic’s on-site experts on the technology.

Grachova describes the experience as “both exciting and full of challenges”, especially given the technical language, project terminology and complex processes involved.

The robot is linked to the digital design plans and automatically prints precise construction layouts directly onto floor surfaces, helping produce detailed blueprints and improve the efficiency of site layouts.

“Operating the HP SitePrint requires familiarity with Robotic Total Station technology, tablet navigation, as well as strong communication and teamwork skills,” Grachova says.

“With guidance from experienced colleagues, I’ve received hands-on training and practice with these tools, which has given me the confidence and technical skills to effectively operate the robot.

“My whole experience in learning the technology has also highlighted the importance of collaboration [because] teamwork is essential to optimise workflows, meet deadlines and ensure the printed layouts are accurate.

“It’s been a fantastic insight into how technology can reshape the industry by improving both efficiency and precision on-site.”

As well as HP SitePrint, Grachova has also had the opportunity to work with technologies such as the Gamma AR Augmented Reality quality assurance tool and the Skyline Cockpit remote tower crane.

She says it has been a “privilege” to experience the innovative side of the construction industry so early in her career.

“The future of construction is exciting when I think how these [technologies] will develop. My T Level experience has allowed me to see first-hand how a shared passion for innovation and excellence drives success,” she adds.

Looking ahead, Grachova has her sights firmly set on expanding her practical experience and technical skills, while also deepening her theoretical learning within the classroom.

“Every opportunity to gain practical experience and apply my knowledge will allow me to better understand the construction industry,” she says.

As a young construction professional, Grachova is well placed to help encourage fresh talent into the industry. She believes anyone with “a curious and open mind and a passion for exploration” should consider a career in construction.

“I think as new innovations and digital tools continue to develop, more and more young people will be attracted to the industry and thrive due to their familiarity with technology,” she says.

Her advice to other young people at the start of their career journey is not to be afraid of making mistakes because “they are valuable learning experiences that help you grow”.

She adds that it is important to “embrace each challenge as an opportunity to improve your knowledge and skills” and “keep asking questions to expand your understanding”.

“Construction is constantly evolving, so a willingness to adapt and keep learning is a good attitude to have in building a fulfilling career.”

And for employers who want to improve engagement with the next generation, Grachova insists they should highlight the role of new technologies, showing how these tools increase safety, efficiency and creativity on construction sites.

She adds: “In my view, focusing on technology and innovation can help employers inspire the next generation to see construction as an exciting and future-forward career.”