GBCSA Academy AP Spotlight: Pravashan Naidoo

Pravashan Naidoo works for Saint-Gobain as Project Manager – Specifications. He is a qualified quantity surveyor who has spent the last half of his career in mainstream construction working on rural development projects to upmarket commercial and even healthcare projects. He recently achieved his status as a Green Star New Buildings and Major Refurbishments Accredited Professional.

What do you enjoy the most about your job?

I enjoy dealing with external stakeholders providing technical solutions for their project needs, ensuring safer buildings:  air quality, fire requirements, noise treatment and temperature control are just some of our solutions.

Which projects are you most proud of working on?

We provide solutions to all sectors –  as we are extremely customer centric I would have to say all projects are afforded the same amount of attention as the next. We are proud to work with many project teams nationally and also well into the reaches of Sub Saharan Africa

What professional achievement are you most proud of?

 I would simply say: only when I have lived a full life & have contributed to the world would I be able to look back and hopefully say to myself “Yes, I think I made a difference”.

 What set you on your current career path?

 I have always enjoyed the outdoors, a career in the built environment has ensured that I am not deskbound…..well at least not all the time.

Who or what have been the strongest influences guiding your professional life?

I would say a passion for learning. Whether learning from experienced people or expanding one’s own skills, learning is essential. If we are willing to continuously learn and expand our capabilities and apply those learnings we will be able to make significant changes.

Which has been more valuable in your career, your education or your experience, and why?

One would obviously need to have a plan… the sooner you figure it out the better. As I had made the decision to go with a career in construction I chose a course which would allow me many career paths and allow me to have a few options – in that aspect I was fortunate I was able to choose the route which I most enjoyed. An education is indeed a solid foundation and nobody can take that away from you…but so is experience. We live in dynamic times; nothing stops you from doing one or the other or even both. If willing, we may continue to learn and gain experience.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned in your professional career?

Don’t make the same mistake twice!

How has the industry changed since you started?

It is always good to see a new contractors construction board erected, a new tower crane, a new site breaking ground. The drive for more sustainable structures is something that comes to mind… one might not always see it but buildings are indeed becoming more technical; whether it be energy efficiency or water recycling – these “smart” buildings are becoming popular.

What do you think are the changes needed for the industry to reach its sustainability goals?

There are existing building standards that role-players should be familiar with – this is an essential part of achieving our sustainability goals. With current demands for energy even a homeowner may realise the benefits of understanding certain regulations.

What advice do you have for someone new to the green sustainable built environment sector?

Be passionate about making a difference. Whether you see a leaking tap,  a vehicle emitting clouds of smoke or someone littering and it bothers you, you have potential to be a sustainability champion.