Works at Taunton’s most significant construction scheme, the new UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO), have crossed the generations for one young man on site.

Jack Turner 23, from Taunton spent three years as a toddler at the Mini Mariners, part of Tops Day Nurseries which works in partnership with the United Kingdom Hydrographic Office.

Now Jack, who studied at Queen’s College, is back on site, but working as a design manager for major contractor BAM, and helping to shape the future of the scheme. But he follows in the footsteps of his mother.

Jack’s mum, Sue Turner, began work at Taunton’s biggest employer back in 1970s as a production draughtswoman, producing nautical publications that covered large areas of the oceans. Sue recently took voluntary early release after 40 years’ service.

“Mum worked at the UKHO for as long as I can remember and it is very surreal that less than six months after she finished her 40 year career there that I find myself back here on site, albeit it in a very different role.”

Jack Turner

Assistant Design Manager

One thing that has not remained the same is the nature of construction itself. The UKHO scheme is using the most modern methods.

‘Level 2 BIM systems’ are being used, which is a state-of-the-art collaborative approach. It allows the technology between the client, architect, contractor and key suppliers to be brought together inside one live computer model. The technology helps to avoid errors or clashes being found later on site, and to work out the correct build sequences to save time and money.

It is constantly updated as work progresses by the construction team who access and modify the model as they move around capturing information so that this can be used to manage the building more efficiently. It is the sort of technology to which the younger generation take quickly.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to work on a BIM project because having recently completed my degree from Loughborough University a lot of emphasis was placed on the use of BIM and computer models. To be able to put what I have learnt into practice is great.  Many young people don’t realise how technically advanced and exciting a job in construction is. I’d much rather be working in this environment than permanently based in an office.”

Jack Turner

Assistant Design Manager