From ERA Graduate to Site Engineer: Tofunmi's Story

A Fresh Graduate's Dilemma

Tofunmi graduated with a B.Eng in Civil Engineering from the University of Lagos in 2024. Like many graduates, she had strong theoretical knowledge but limited practical experience.

"I could solve structural analysis problems on paper, but I'd never set foot on a real construction site. I didn't know what a day in the life of a site engineer looked like."

Discovering ERA

A friend who had completed ERA's programme recommended it. "She told me it was intense but worth every naira. She was already working on a major project in Victoria Island within two months of finishing."

The ERA Experience

The first week was eye-opening. "We went to an active construction site on day three. I saw a foundation being cast for the first time. The instructor explained every step — the formwork, the reinforcement checks, the slump test, the pour sequence. It was nothing like the textbook."

Over the next six months, Tofunmi learned:

The Placement

Through ERA's partner network, Tofunmi was placed with Calebella Integritas Projects Ltd for a three-month internship. "I was nervous, but ERA had prepared me well. Within the first week, I was assisting with setting out and supervising reinforcement placement."

Where She Is Now

Tofunmi was offered a full-time position as a Site Engineer. She now supervises concrete works on a 5-storey residential development in Lekki.

"ERA didn't just teach me engineering — they taught me how to be a professional. The mentorship, the site experience, the soft skills training — it all came together. I'm exactly where I want to be."

Her Advice

"Don't wait for the perfect opportunity to fall in your lap. Invest in yourself. ERA gave me the foundation, and the rest was hard work and consistency."