Developers of Birmingham’s tallest skyscraper inspire and learn from next generation

A successful student mentorship scheme between Birmingham City University (BCU) and residential property developer Court Collaboration will be extended to a second year, following a successful pilot.

Five BCU built environment students took part in the initiative, gaining hands-on experience and insights into the industry while working on dissertation topics ranging from social housing repairs to cost assurance in construction.

They worked with Court Collaboration, the developer behind One Eastside - a 155-metre residential tower currently under construction on James Watt Queensway, which will become Birmingham’s tallest building once complete.

“This mentorship gave me invaluable exposure to the industry and an opportunity to engage with professionals to understand the unique challenges and solutions facing them,” said undergraduate Jack McGowan.

“The quality and depth of my research has improved too as I was able to gain more insight from hands-on industry perspectives.

“The scheme has given me real excitement to begin my journey when I graduate.”

Alex Neale, Court Collaboration CEO and BCU alumnus, said the mentorship scheme has benefitted students and his company: “It’s been great to get students’ perspectives on industry challenges.

“Their confidence - which is an important skill in this industry - has also grown over the last 12 months.

“I’m looking forward to getting more students involved so we can share good learnings between BCU and Court Collaboration.”

The mentorship initiative is the result of a wider research project between BCU and Court Collaboration.

One Eastside is developing a digital twin to manage indoor conditions and facilitate preventative maintenance which can be used a blueprint for safe, healthy and environmentally friendly high-rise builds.

Professor Nick Morton, Deputy Dean for BCU’s Computing, Engineering and Built Environment faculty and project co-lead, said: “This project is not only developing cutting edge knowledge and technology to manage buildings more efficiently but is also helping to support the next generation of industry professionals and student talent.”

Professor Hanifa Shah, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research, Enterprise, Engagement and STEAM at BCU, said the One Eastside project and mentorship scheme are helping the university reach its Strategy 2030 goals: “I am delighted see how our partnership with Court Collaboration has expanded beyond research and enterprise, and into our students’ experiences and curriculum.

“These industry-led initiatives show we’re committed to developing the talent of tomorrow through innovative projects based in Birmingham.

“As this partnership continues and grows, we’re looking forward to seeing more students get involved with One Eastside and Court Collaboration.”

The scheme will welcome a new cohort from September 2025.

Dr Saeed Talebi, Associate Professor in Built Environment and BCU’s One Eastside project lead, said: “This was a proud moment for me to see our students developing beneficial solutions for our industry partner.

“As we continue working towards delivering an innovative digital solution at One Eastside, I’m delighted that the project is also directly benefitting our students and preparing them for handling industry challenges.”

Read more about the One Eastside research project.