At MES Building Solutions, supporting the next generation of built environment professionals is an essential part of our mission. In March, Director Chris Jones and Sustainability Consultant Tommy Jackson were invited to Nottingham Trent University to deliver a guest workshop for final‑year surveying students undertaking a commercial building retrofit project. The session provided students with practical insight into the challenges and opportunities of improving the energy performance of existing buildings. As an NTU alumnus, Tommy particularly relished the opportunity to return to the university and support students following the same path he once took.

With over 25 years experience in construction and sustainability, Chris opened the workshop by exploring the critical role retrofit plays in addressing climate change and enhancing the performance of the UK’s building stock. With around 80% of the buildings that will exist in 2050 already built, effective retrofit strategies are essential if the UK is to meet its legally binding net‑zero commitments. Upgrading ageing buildings, rather than relying solely on new construction, offers one of the most significant opportunities for reducing carbon emissions.

The workshop centered on a live commercial retrofit project the students were working on, using the Mansfield headquarters of the Mining Remediation Authority (which makes a better future for people and the environment in mining areas), as their case study. Chris and Tommy guided the group through the process of evaluating the existing buildings and identifying opportunities to improve their performance.

A core part of the session focused on the fabric‑first approach to retrofit. Prioritising improvements to the building envelope before introducing new technologies. Students examined how enhancing thermal performance through better insulation, minimising thermal bridging and reducing air leakage can significantly lower heating demand and overall energy consumption.

The workshop also introduced the regulatory landscape governing commercial building performance. Chris discussed the role of Building Regulations, particularly Part L, as well as certification requirements such as Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) and Display Energy Certificates (DECs). Students were shown how modelling tools like the Simplified Building Energy Model (SBEM) help assess energy use and demonstrate compliance with statutory standards.

Finally, the students explored the retrofit process outlined in PAS 2038, which promotes a structured, whole‑building approach. Chris and Tommy discussed how the framework emphasises careful assessment, long‑term planning and performance monitoring. This ensures retrofit measures not only deliver measurable energy savings, but also maintain occupant comfort and safeguard the long‑term health of the building.

We’re grateful to NTU for the opportunity to engage with the next generation of building surveyors and MES is proud to contribute to the development of future professionals and to support universities in preparing students for real‑world challenges. Engaging with surveying students and sharing practical experience helps strengthen industry understanding and inspires the next generation to champion sustainable, resilient, and efficient buildings. For Tommy, an NTU alumnus, returning to campus offered a special opportunity to share his enthusiasm for smarter, greener, and more efficient buildings. At MES, we remain committed to investing in people who reflect our values and championing local talent as it develops and returns to inspire others.

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