In Conversation With…Michael Parkin, senior quantity surveyor at Able Construction

Michael Parkin, senior quantity surveyor at Able Construction

Can you tell us about Able Construction and your role?

I’m a senior quantity surveyor, involved in the commercial day-to-day running of projects from the point they start on site through to completion. My role focuses on ensuring projects are delivered efficiently while maintaining strong commercial performance.

When was the company established?

Able Construction was established in 1987 and has built up a strong reputation over the years across the region.

What projects is the company currently undertaking?

We are currently delivering a range of projects, including the refurbishment of children’s homes on behalf of Gateshead, Newcastle and Sunderland councils, as well as new-build social housing for North Tyneside Council.

Which areas of the UK does your company operate within?

We primarily operate across the North East of England, covering areas from Teesside through to Northumberland.

What are the biggest challenges and opportunities facing the construction sector?

One of the key challenges is the ongoing shortage of skilled labour. With an ageing workforce and fewer young people entering the industry, it’s becoming increasingly important to attract and retain new talent.

We’ve also seen significant increases in material costs in recent years, particularly for materials such as steel and timber. This can make pricing projects more challenging and adds pressure when trying to maintain margins.

In addition, wider global factors, including ongoing conflicts, continue to impact supply chains and create uncertainty in the market.

What can be done to bridge the skills gap in the construction sector?

Greater investment in apprenticeship programmes is essential to help bring through the next generation of skilled workers. Alongside this, offering better incentives and promoting the wide range of opportunities available in construction could help attract more people into the industry.

You are a member of the Northern Counties Builders Federation. How does being aligned to a sector body support Able Construction?

Being part of the Federation helps us stay informed about developments across the industry and ensures we remain aligned with current standards and best practice.

It also provides valuable networking opportunities, allowing us to connect with other professionals, share knowledge and explore potential collaborations.

What’s your proudest business achievement?

One of my personal highlights has been securing opportunities to work overseas, including projects across Europe and the Middle East. Being involved in high-value, large-scale developments has been a great experience and a key milestone in my career.