Provelio’s Chair, Paul Wilson, marked 35 years of membership with Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) this year. In an article published by RICS, he reflects on being a RICS member, his career lessons and how having a profession behind him has helped.
In the article, Paul discusses how professional membership is often discussed in terms of immediate benefits, such as access to learning resources, communities and opportunities for continuous professional development (CPD). He addresses that whilst these are true immediate values, the true benefits of professional membership can only be understood with the benefit of time.
The article considers the role that being a RICS member has played in supporting sound decision-making throughout a changing profession, from providing technical standards and professional guidance to fostering a community of practitioners committed to maintaining high standards of practice. It also reflects on the value of professional networks, mentorship and shared learning, and how these often become some of the most enduring benefits of membership.
At a time when the built environment faces increasingly complex challenges, the need for trusted professional standards and informed judgement has never been greater. Paul’s reflections serve as a reminder that professional development is not defined by individual events, publications or qualifications alone. Rather, it is the cumulative effect of continuous learning, collaboration and adherence to professional principles over many years.
For those at the outset of their careers, the article offers an important perspective on the long-term value of professional membership. For experienced practitioners, it provides an opportunity to reflect on the foundations that have informed their own professional journeys and the role that institutions such as RICS continue to play in supporting the profession as it evolves.
To read this article, follow this link: What 35 years of membership taught me about learning from a profession | LinkedIn
