Darren Gray (38) recently graduated with an MSc in Construction and Property Management from The Robert Gordon University's Scott Sutherland School of Architecture and Built Environment.

Darren served an apprenticeship as an electrician and worked for Claud Hamilton Electrical Services for ten years until 1996. From there he moved to Halliburton as a maintenance electrician as part of their facilities team and in 2000 became Facilities Co-ordinator. In 2002 the company restructured and he became the Facilities Building Maintenance Manager, the post he holds today.

Darren said: "I decided to study the MSc Construction and Property Management course to not only fulfil a personal goal, but also to compliment my existing facilities management knowledge and the training provided in-house.

"Halliburton were to embark on a facility consolidation exercise and I felt it would be advantageous to have this additional qualification as it would be of a benefit to not only myself but also my employer."

Darren studied two half days per week at RGU. He added: "To begin with it was quite daunting as I hadn't been in a classroom environment for quite some time. However, I made friends quickly and soon got into a routine. The University facilities were good and the lecturers were helpful, always available for a chat at any time.

"What was particularly fun and interesting was the homework we carried out which involved meeting classmates to pull together group work. It was interesting being with a different mix of fellow students, some in full time work like myself, and hearing their views on various modules which sometimes had a direct bearing on our day to day jobs.

"The Project Management, Facilities Management, People Management and Finance modules were in particular directly associated with my day to day job and there was quite a lot that I was able to absorb and use to compliment our existing policies and processes."

Darren found it difficult juggling his time between work, studying and looking after his children Lauren (14) and Bradley (ten). He also coaches local amateur football team, Burghmuir FC.

"With all this and day to day house chores to do, I didn't really know how I was going to fit in studying, but you just have to discipline yourself and try and get into a routine, especially at assessment times," said Darren.

"It's particularly satisfying when you complete an assessment and hand it in and even more satisfying when you find out you have passed, giving you the impetus to keep going.

"A colleague of mine also studied the course and we encouraged each other. I have to give special thanks to my dear old Mum who would text me the message 'come round for your supper after work' to save me time cooking meals and to let me spend that time studying!

"I'd also like to thank Halliburton and my line manager for supporting me through the course."