Adventures of a Licensed Surveyor.

Beau Thorley is a licensed surveyor with South Australian-based surveying consultancy Alexander Symonds, practicing cadastral, engineering and construction surveying, with particular expertise in 3D laser scanning and high precision engineering surveys.

Beau has taken some time to share his experiences building his career in surveying; here’s what he had to say -

What inspired you to become a Land Surveyor?

I wanted a job that was both indoor and outdoors. A job that allowed for travel, required me to think and was mathematics based. Something that wasn’t just a job, but a career with pathways and plenty of job opportunities at the end of study.

What steps did you take to become qualified?

I studied a Bachelor of Geoinformatics and Surveying at UniSA. I also did work experience and casual work in the industry during my final year at Uni. After graduating I was employed as a Graduate Surveyor under the supervision of a Licensed Surveyor. I completed my training agreement and  now I'm a Licensed Surveyor. 

Where do you see your career in the next 5 years?

I see myself working as a consultant to assist on large development and engineering projects. My expertise is in precision engineering and 3D Laser Scanning surveys, so I am looking to continue developing in these areas and helping clients use new technologies to achieve a better result.

I am also looking to develop further as a professional and leader in the business and industry.

What challenges have you faced as a Surveyor?

Working on projects across the country is amazing, however it can be challenging with a young family.

What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on?

Working and managing a large survey team on highly specialised engineering projects on remote mine sites and integrating 3D Laser Scanning into the Adelaide Casino and Festival Centre Precinct upgrade projects.

What advice would you give to those thinking of studying surveying?

If you are after a challenging but extremely rewarding career consider surveying. We work with the latest technology on varying projects that can take you anywhere in the city, state, country or the world. There is a great mix of working outdoors and indoors. If you are strong at maths I recommend you investigate work experience with a surveyor to find out more.