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A rookie building control officer has won a prestigious award after only 10 months in the role.
Building Surveying student Olivia McGregor has been awarded young building control professional of the year at the annual BOINZ conference. The 34-year-old has been recognised for her strong professional growth and for dedicating her time to enhancing the building control profession.
A second-year student of the NZ Diploma in Building Surveying (In employment), she graduates at the end of the year. The mother of two started a dream role as a Building Control Officer (BCO) at the Timaru District Council in late October and kept studying for the Level 6 diploma.
It was a surreal moment to win the BOINZ excellence award this month, she says. “I was shocked. To be highlighted in a room full of very senior managers and professionals, which is what I aspire to, was incredible. To have their support and congratulations was very rewarding." Being extolled by her lecturers from Future Skills Academy was a superb moment, she says. “Knowing that their knowledge and teachings, which they are passionate about, have contributed to this award - it was awesome that they were there and able to be involved in the celebrations.”
Olivia’s ability to quickly analyse information and relate it to legislative requirements has been applauded. “I am very proud of what she has achieved so far and look forward to seeing her develop into a fantastic leader in our industry,” a manager says.
Olivia believes drive, sheer determination and motivation have led to the accolade. “Once in the Building Control Authority (BCO) environment, the support from the team as well as the many learning opportunities provided through BOINZ by the Timaru District Council have also helped. The learning provided through the diploma has given me the knowledge to be able to undertake my BCO role.”
Flexibility and endless support have been the keys to professional success, she says. “Having two young children, the flexibility provided by Timaru District Council has allowed me to still be able to get the work done with a combination of working at the office and home, therefore being available for the kids when required with no stress. I also think Timaru District Council must have the best building unit in the country. The support and generosity with time and learning opportunities is something I am considerably grateful for.”
The Building Control Officer role can be undervalued and comes with some pushback from those in the trade, Olivia says. “But what we are doing is ensuring that the purpose and principles of the Building Act are being carried out to ensure the safety of the users and longevity of buildings. Knowing that I am a part of that, the bigger picture or end goal is what I enjoy.”
