When Adam first joined Herefordshire College to study Brickwork, he was one of around 40 students starting the course. Years later, he returned to the College’s workshops in very different circumstances, not as a student, but as the owner of his own successful construction business, helping support the next generation of apprentices!
Today, Adam runs Rogers Brickwork, a thriving business he established in 2019, delivering projects across Abergevenny, Herefordshire and beyond. From garden walls and patios to building entire homes, his business has grown rapidly, and he credits his time at Herefordshire College with laying the foundations for that success.
Before discovering brickwork, Adam spent two years in sixth form studying Film Studies, Business, English and Sociology.
“I didn’t really know what I wanted to do,” he explains. “Coming to college and learning brickwork gave me direction. Once I started, I realised this was what I wanted to do.”
Adam completed the first two years of his apprenticeship training at Herefordshire College while working with local company William Powell. After taking a year out when the third-year course wasn’t running, he returned to complete his qualification.
“There were only two of us left by the third year,” he says. “The tutors expected a lot from us, but that’s what made the difference. If they could see you wanted to learn, they’d give you everything they could.”
Adam particularly remembers the support and high standards of his tutors, as well as the strong work ethic they encouraged.
“They were approachable, knowledgeable, and if you were serious about learning, they were fully behind you.”
Building a Business
After qualifying, Adam worked in the industry before taking the leap into self-employment. Starting small, he began sharing photos and videos of his work on social media to showcase his skills.
“It became a portfolio people could look at and decide if they wanted to work with me. Social media has been huge for my business, it’s free advertising, and it’s brought in a lot of work.”
That online presence has helped Adam connect with clients, industry professionals, and even major names in construction. Last year, he was invited by the London Brick Company to tour its factory in Peterborough as part of an influencer event for leading tradespeople.
“It felt surreal getting invited to something like that just because of what I was posting online.”
His projects have grown significantly over the years too. One standout achievement is a large bespoke house in Peterchurch that Adam built from the ground up.
“Every time I drive past it, I stop and have a look. It’s probably my favourite project so far.”
Now, he is currently building another home while pricing up a seven-house development in Weobley, the biggest contract of his career to date!
Giving Back to the Next Generation
Adam’s connection with Herefordshire College has remained strong.
When he decided to enter the national Super Trowel bricklaying competition, he reached out to the College for practice space. Brickwork tutor Paul went above and beyond to support him.
“I was hoping for a bit of workshop space, but he organised everything and supported me every week while I practised. It was amazing.”
Adam competed in Cornwall this year and is already planning to return next year.
He also invited current apprentice Elliot to join him as his labourer for the competition, giving him valuable industry experience and mentoring support.
Adam is now helping Elliot prepare for the Junior Super Trowel competition, taking place just before the May half-term. This time, the roles are reversed, with Adam stepping in as Elliot’s labourer, supporting him through the challenge.
“It’s been great working with Elliot and helping him prepare for his own competition. It feels like things have come full circle.”
Adam is now also working with another first-year student, Carlos, two days per week and is considering putting him through an apprenticeship.
For anyone considering a career in brickwork, Adam’s advice is simple:
“If you’re serious about it, give it everything you’ve got. Don’t just go through the motions. Get to know your tutors, work hard, and make the most of every opportunity.”
He also encourages students to engage with the wider trade community online.
“There’s a huge bricklaying community out there on social media and YouTube. You can learn so much, stay motivated, and see what’s possible.”
A Foundation for Success
Reflecting on his journey, Adam says Herefordshire College gave him the practical skills, discipline, and support network to succeed.
“The College gave me the foundations I needed. The tutors care, the facilities are great, and if you want to learn, they’ll help you go a long way.”
Find out more about our Brickwork courses: HERE
Follow Rogers Brickwork on Instagram: HERE