A sustainable construction firm is accelerating digital transformation by partnering with a university student through Made Smarter South East’s Digital Internship programme
Ecological Developments has recruited University of Southampton student Nikita Malkov to advance digital transformation in construction and integrate digital design workflows.
The partnership was backed by Made Smarter, the government-funded initiative, which is helping SMEs access specialist digital skills and emerging talent through funded university placements, providing a low-risk way to explore and deploy new technologies on the factory floor.
Developing critical skills needed for a digital transformation in construction
Through the government funding, students gain valuable hands-on experience, applying their academic know-how to real manufacturing challenges while developing the technical, commercial and professional skills employers are looking for.
With five internships already completed and a further 12 opportunities currently being delivered or recruited, Made Smarter South East is encouraging businesses across the region to explore how an internship could support their digital transformation ambitions.
Bryan Vint, programme manager for Made Smarter South East, commented: “One of the biggest barriers to digital transformation in construction for many manufacturers is finding the time and specialist expertise needed to turn ideas into reality.
“These digital internships help overcome that challenge by connecting businesses with talented students and graduates who bring new skills, knowledge and fresh thinking into the organisation.
Helping businesses grow and speed up projects
Alex Ainsworth, managing director of Ecologic Developments, explained: “The internship gave us extra technical resources at a really important stage in our growth.
“Having somebody who could support CAD, design processes and wider project activity helped relieve pressure internally and allowed us to keep progressing key areas of the business.”
Vint added: “Whether it’s exploring AI, automating processes or improving digital workflows, the placements provide a practical, low-risk way for manufacturers to access specialist expertise and accelerate projects.”
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