Story posted: 11/02/2025
For Frankie, a career in construction was almost inevitable. Growing up surrounded by family members in trades, including his dad, who worked in decorating, Frankie was always more comfortable outdoors, learning from those around him. Even from a young age, he had a natural curiosity for working with his hands. Frankie is currently working on Sempra's Tyefields, Chapelgate and Broadmayne dvelopments, creating 166 new homes.
“I was always outside when I was younger—whether it was making dens or just playing around. I was always hands-on,” Frankie says.
In school, Frankie showed an interest in design and technology, particularly woodwork. He started to think about getting a trade and decided to try a multi-skills course at college. There, he tried carpentry, tiling, and other hands-on work. But it was bricklaying that really caught his attention.
“Before my apprenticeship, I did a level one bricklaying course,” Frankie explains. “But I was waiting to start level two and looking for an apprenticeship. Then this opportunity with GSQ Brickwork came up, and I grabbed it.”
For Frankie, the decision to choose an apprenticeship over staying in college was all about learning by doing. “I knew I’d learn more on-site,” he says. “I wanted to be actively doing the work rather than sitting in a classroom. That’s the only way I could see myself doing the job long-term.”
His apprenticeship was a one-year course that balanced classroom learning with real-world experience. “It was a good mix. You don’t get overwhelmed with too much at once, but it prepares you well,” Frankie explains. “You learn the right techniques and the standards needed, so when you do go onto a site, you’re not caught off guard. You’re Site Ready.”
The course had a five-week block at the NHBC hub before heading out to work on-site. Then back for a 2 week intensive block every couple of months. For Frankie, that combination of theory and practice was perfect.
Looking ahead, Frankie has big plans. While he’s still progressing through his apprenticeship and learning new techniques, he’s already thinking about the next steps in his career. “I want to keep pushing myself and getting better at bricklaying,” he says. “There are guys who’ve been doing this for 15+ years, and I’m learning from them every day. But eventually, I’d like to take on more responsibility—maybe move into a supervisory role.”
Outside of his on-site work, Frankie is also active on social media, especially TikTok, where he shares glimpses of his work and brings some fun to the process. “Social media is great for reaching younger people,” he says. “Everyone’s on there, so it’s an easy way to show what bricklaying is really about. You can post short videos of laying bricks, cutting bricks, and even just messing around on-site. It’s a fun way to get people interested.”
Frankie’s story is a perfect example of how passion, hands-on experience, and a bit of social media can make a real difference in the construction world. As he continues to grow in his career, he’s inspiring others to follow in his footsteps and find out for themselves just how rewarding a career in construction can be. Frankie is currently working on Sempra's Tyefields, Chapelgate and Broadmayne developments. Creating 166 new homes.
