Ed Burnand – CAD for Construction & Estimating Skills Bootcamps
“Moving into consultancy felt like the natural next step for me, and the HBXL Skills Bootcamps provided exactly the route I needed to get there. The support was excellent, the interaction with other learners was really valuable, and the impact on me has been completely positive. If you’re thinking about re-skilling or broadening your expertise, I’d say fully commit to it, take everything in, and enjoy the experience — it’s a genuinely worthwhile opportunity.”
Discovering the Skills Bootcamp
With a strong background in construction already in place, Ed was looking for a programme that offered practical, industry-focused learning. HBXL’s approach stood out as well aligned with his experience and future ambitions. He was pleased to see that HBXL was working with Hertfordshire County Council and their Hertfordshire Opportunities initiative.
Background: Experience and career direction
With almost two decades in the construction sector, Ed began his career as a Bench Joiner and Wood Machinist before running his own cabinet-making business for more than ten years. He later progressed into specialist fabrication work for London galleries, contributing to bespoke, high-end installations that relied heavily on precision, design, and technical skill.
Ed’s ambition was to build on this hands-on experience and transition into a consultancy-focused role. He wanted to strengthen his digital design capabilities, refresh his skill set, and gain a clearer understanding of estimating and business planning – all with the aim of creating a more sustainable, future-focused role within construction.
Skills gained during the Bootcamps
Through the CAD for Construction and Estimating Skills Bootcamps, Ed developed confidence and capability across several key areas, including:
- Producing accurate 2D construction drawings and measured layouts
- Gaining a full understanding of the estimating process from start to finish
- Applying business modelling principles to construction projects
- Using digital tools to support real-world design, pricing, and delivery
Ed particularly valued the practical nature of the training, describing the course structure as an excellent fit for his learning style, with a strong emphasis on “learning by doing.”
Next steps and impact
The Skills Bootcamp experience provided Ed with renewed clarity and confidence in his professional direction. He went on to enrol in a second Skills Bootcamp through a later funding round (the courses need to be a ‘funding round’ apart), further expanding his knowledge and capabilities.
The training has helped him introduce stronger estimating practices into his business, enabling him to secure work at fairer and more sustainable prices. It has also supported the development of business models for a future consultancy venture. In addition, the programme has:
- Strengthened his digital skill set, preparing him for further Project & Job Management Bootcamp training
- Re-engaged him with the construction industry from a more strategic and professional perspective
Ed credits the Bootcamps with giving him a more realistic understanding of the commercial side of construction, alongside a renewed sense of optimism about his future in the industry.
Conclusion
Ed’s journey highlights the broader value of the HBXL Skills Bootcamps. By supporting experienced tradespeople to retrain, enhance digital capability, and explore new career paths, the programme enables individuals to remain active and relevant in a changing construction landscape.
For Ed, the opportunity to take his existing skills to the next level and move away from the tools towards consultancy has been both empowering and liberating.
What next?
Want to become your own success story? Explore our Skills Bootcamps and CITB courses.