<p>This month, we’re proud to feature <strong data-start="117" data-end="136">Brandon Hewlett</strong>, a <strong data-start="140" data-end="166">Weston College alumnus</strong> who has built a successful career in the <strong data-start="208" data-end="245">property and estate agency sector</strong>. Now the <strong data-start="255" data-end="307">Managing Director of Hewlett Homes Estate Agents</strong>, Brandon’s journey from studying Business and Finance at college to running his own company is an inspiring example of where determination, adaptability, and ambition can lead.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p data-start="260" data-end="358"><em>My name is Brandon Hewlett, and I am the Managing Director of Hewlett Homes Estate Agents.</em></p><p data-start="360" data-end="726"><em>I studied Business and Finance at Weston College. While studying, I already knew that I wanted to work in sales, so after college I went straight into phone sales for a year. From there, I began my career in estate agency. Over time, I was promoted several times, eventually becoming a Branch Manager, before going on to start my own company in 2022.&nbsp;</em></p><p data-start="360" data-end="726"><em>One pivotal opportunity came when I was offered the chance to move to Taunton to become a Branch Manager. I took this opportunity because I wanted to further my career, and it proved to be an important step in my development. Adaptability has been important in my career, particularly when it came to moving town to chase a promotion. This experience gave me valuable knowledge and confidence, which later helped me when I decided to start my own business.</em></p><p data-start="360" data-end="726"><em>For students who feel uncertain about their future career path, my advice would be that nothing in life is ever certain. You may start college with a specific career or goal in mind, but things can change in an instant. It’s important to be adaptable, ready, and open to new opportunities.&nbsp;</em></p><p data-start="1727" data-end="1947"><em>In a world where industries and job roles are constantly evolving, young professionals should try not to become too specialist in one area unless they are completely certain about the career and role they want to pursue.</em></p><p data-start="1949" data-end="2202"><em>If I could go back and give my younger self one piece of career advice, it would be this: don’t try to be everybody’s friend. There will be times when you need to show authority and manage a team. Lead by example and always give everything 110%.</em></p><p data-start="1949" data-end="2202">&nbsp;</p><p data-start="1949" data-end="2202">&nbsp;</p><p data-start="1949" data-end="2202">&nbsp;</p><p data-pm-slice="1 1 []"><strong>If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College </strong><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/jobs?utm_source=main-menu&amp;utm_medium=main-…;. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As 2026 begins, Weston College and Bristol Airport remain committed to expanding their work together by creating opportunities that help individuals thrive, businesses grow and the region prosper.</p><p>For several years, the two organisations have worked side by side to build a strong, inclusive and future-focused careers and talent pipeline, connecting local people with real opportunities across one of the region’s most dynamic employment hubs. From inspiring young people to consider aviation careers to supporting adults to retrain or progress, the partnership is helping the next generation prepare for lift-off.</p><p>With a wide range of roles at the airport spanning aviation operations, engineering, digital, customer service, security, sustainability, retail and more; Weston College has played a pivotal role in helping translate these opportunities into clear, accessible career pathways for learners of all ages and backgrounds. The aim? To create a sustainable talent pipeline.</p><p>Through close collaboration, the partnership has delivered:</p><ul><li>Careers inspiration and engagement (including employer talks from the airport and its partners), careers events, site visits and insight sessions that bring the airport to life for students.</li><li>Clear progression routes by mapping education and training pathways from entry-level roles through to higher-level and specialist careers.</li><li>Skills development aligned to industry need ensuring learners are equipped with technical, professional and employability skills employers value most.</li><li>Inclusive opportunities – supporting social mobility and widening participation for all.</li></ul><p>By working together, Weston College and Bristol Airport are not only responding to current skills needs but also anticipating the future as aviation continues to evolve. Learners are encouraged to see aviation not as a single career, but as a sector full of diverse and futureproof opportunities supporting growth, innovation and sustainability across the aviation sector.</p><p>This approach ensures that employers can access a pipeline of work ready talent, learners gain real world insight and confidence in their career choices and the regional economy benefits from homegrown skills and retained talent.</p><p><em>“This partnership shows what’s possible when education and industry work together with a shared vision,” </em>said Lynsey McKinstry, Strategic Business Partnerships Manager at Weston College. <em>“By aligning learning with real careers at Bristol Airport, we’re helping drive ambition, confidence and a clear route into rewarding employment.”</em></p><p>Sophie Adams, Skills and Employment Business Partner at Bristol Airport added: <em>“Weston College has been instrumental in helping us engage with future talent. Together, we’re building a workforce that reflects our communities and is ready to support the airport’s future growth.”</em></p>

<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Last month, Weston College welcomed Lauren Carr, Technical Project Manager at <strong>SharkNinja</strong> UK, for an engaging and 'Outrageously Extraordinary' session with <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/busin… 3 Business</u></a> students. Lauren shared her expertise in managing complex projects for a global brand operating across the UK, US, and China, offering students a unique insight into the processes behind bringing innovative products to market.&nbsp;</p><p>During the interactive sessions, Lauren explained how her team takes projects from initial concept through to manufacturing, covering essential tools such as Gantt charts, risk management strategies, and the Red-Amber-Green system for tracking progress with the engineers. Students learned about the importance of market research, prototype development, and the rigorous quality standards SharkNinja applies to every product.&nbsp;</p><p>To bring theory to life, Lauren set students a hands-on challenge. <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/busin… 1 Business</u></a> students, currently studying marketing, worked in groups to design and label a new product concept. <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/busin… 2 Business</u></a> students then took these ideas forward, applying project management principles to overcome simulated risks and navigate manufacturing setbacks. This practical exercise allowed students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios, developing problem-solving, teamwork, and decision-making skills.&nbsp;</p><p>Lauren also shared candid insights into the challenges of her role, including managing expert teams under tight deadlines and ensuring projects meet aggressive targets. Her advice gave students a realistic understanding of the responsibilities and pressures faced in project management careers.&nbsp;</p><p>The sessions provided an invaluable networking opportunity and helped students strengthen both their personal and professional development. By connecting with an industry leader, students gained a deeper appreciation of how their studies translate into the workplace and the skills required to succeed in a global business environment.&nbsp;</p><p>Emma Hussey, Curriculum Co-ordinater and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/busin…; lecturer, said, “Having Lauren join us and provide such an in-depth break down of the Project Management process from concept through to manufacturing was great insight for our students to gain a better understanding of what to expect. Project Management is a fantastic career route, therefore, gaining this invaluable insight from an industry professional will help students make an informed decision about which pathway they want to take following college.”&nbsp;</p><p>A huge thank you to Lauren for sharing her knowledge and experiences with our students!&nbsp;</p><p>This guest lecture forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/busin…; Careers Excellence Hub. Weston College's Career Excellence Hubs are designed to be the launching pad for our learners' careers. In a world where connections and relevant skills matter more than ever, these hubs offer a holistic approach that prepares learners to thrive in their chosen industries. With the support of these hubs, our learners are well-equipped to make a significant impact in their professional journeys. &nbsp;</p><p>Progress to the next level in <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses-by-subject/business-accounting-and-operat…;! At <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/"><u>University Centre Weston (UCW)</u></a> our students give us impressive feedback, with our latest National Student Survey results putting us above average in all nine areas! Find out more about our exceptional teaching, wellbeing services and learning resources by visiting our website. <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/"><u>Click here!</u></a>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College </strong><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/jobs?utm_source=main-menu&amp;utm_medium=main-…;. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.</strong>&nbsp;</p>