Meet The Team: Matt R, Survey Technician

Ever thought about a career change? One of our team, Matt, did just that two years ago when he joined Kemp. After finding limited opportunities in his previous role, Matt made the brave decision to take on a new challenge. Surveying caught his interest after chatting with our Assistant Survey Manager, Rich, who gave him an insight into the day-to-day life of a surveyor and the opportunities the role can bring. It was enough to spark something, and ultimately, Matt took the leap.

No two days are the same for Matt, which is something he really enjoys about the job. Whether he’s working on a topographic survey, measured building survey, levelling, or utilities, each day brings something different. He typically starts by prepping for site work, which varies massively depending on the location and the services required.

When asked what his favourite part of working at Kemp is, Matt didn’t hesitate: “The people.”

He shared his experience joining the team as a trainee:
“Everyone is always willing to help if you’re stuck or need a hand. Coming from a completely different background with no training or knowledge of surveying at 37, there’s a lot to learn — but everyone has helped me along without hesitation.”

Matt’s also been impressed by Kemp’s dedication to training. He’s learned so much from our senior surveyors and is currently studying at The Survey School in Worcester, completing the TSA course. It’s giving him both the theoretical and practical knowledge he needs to build a solid foundation in his new career. When he graduates, he’ll come away with a highly valuable qualification that will support his long-term progression.

One of Matt’s standout memories from his time at Kemp so far is the Fraddon Pipeline Survey, the first major project he was involved in. The survey spanned 10km and took him across multiple terrains through the countryside, using a variety of methods to capture the data. A brilliant experience, and a proud moment.

And if Matt wasn’t a surveyor? He reckons he might still be delivering post as a village postie, a job he enjoyed, or perhaps heading down a completely different path working with animals or in archaeology.

Outside of work, Matt enjoys spending time with family and friends. He’s a big sports fan and loves playing everything from badminton and tennis to football. For a bit of R&R, you might find him listening to music, reading comics, or brushing up on his knowledge of ancient history.

If he could go anywhere in the world? He’d head back to Africa. Matt spent his honeymoon in Kenya and loved every minute of it; so Egypt or South Africa could be next on the list.