Interview with Yonas Berhe: From Graduate to Award-Nominated Retrofit Designer at VOR 

Yonas Berhe, a Retrofit Designer at VOR, discusses his career journey from graduate to an award-nominated designer. Yonas shares how his time at VOR has helped him grow professionally, his passion for retrofit design, and his advice for young professionals looking to explore opportunities in the construction industry. Read on to learn more about Yonas’ inspiring path and his future aspirations!

How did you first get involved with VOR? 

Yonas Berhe: “I completed my Master’s in Architecture at UWE Bristol in the summer of 2022. After finishing, I was looking for opportunities outside the typical architectural practice. I wanted to explore different sectors within construction.” Yonas first discovered VOR through the university’s internal job board, Careers Hub. “What caught my attention was the fact that VOR offered a more technical, specialised angle, particularly in retrofit design, which I found intriguing.” 

He applied for a two-month internship at VOR in July 2022. “During that internship, I was exposed to a lot of what the company does and realised it was exactly what I wanted. It wasn’t just about traditional architecture but learning about energy modeling, planning applications, and building regulations.” After a successful internship, Yonas was offered a full-time position as a Retrofit Designer, a role he still holds today. 

How did VOR support you throughout your studies and career development? 

“VOR has been incredibly supportive, not just during the internship but throughout my time here. They’ve been key in my professional development, offering both mentorship and opportunities to work on a variety of projects.” Yonas mentions how the environment at VOR allowed him to take things step-by-step, adapting at his own pace. 

A major aspect of this support came through mentoring from key team members. “Phil Leighton and Phil Partridge have been particularly influential. Phil Leighton, especially, has been guiding me through my Part 3 qualification, signing off on my quarterly experience records, and providing appraisals of my work. Phil Partridge, who I’ve worked with most closely, has shared a wealth of knowledge about retrofit, and he’s been patient in transferring his skills to me.” 

What kind of growth have you seen in yourself since joining VOR? 

Yonas has grown significantly, both technically and professionally. “I’ve gained a deep understanding of retrofit design, particularly in how energy modeling, thermal bridges, and building regulations tie into making homes more energy-efficient. Learning about the direct impact our work has on people, especially in programs like the Homes Upgrade Grant (HUG), has been really rewarding.” He appreciates the chance to see how their work improves the quality of life for people at risk of fuel poverty. “Seeing the direct impact on everyday people’s lives gives immense job satisfaction.” 

How does VOR encourage your learning and growth even after graduation? 

Since joining VOR, Yonas has had numerous opportunities to continue learning and growing. “VOR sponsored my Part 3 qualification, which is the final step to becoming a licensed architect. They’ve also supported me in taking several specialised courses. I’m now an accredited Retrofit Coordinator, and I’ve completed additional CPDs on health and safety, traditional buildings, and even a drone course for rooftop surveys.” 

He is also looking to broaden his knowledge. “I’m keen to get into energy modeling next, which will give me a holistic view of the retrofit process. I’m also interested in learning more about commercial energy modeling and possibly becoming a Passive House designer.” 

How do you feel about being nominated for an industry award? 

Yonas was recently shortlisted for the “Designer of the Year” award at the Retrofit Academy Awards. “It feels amazing to be recognised. It’s a testament to the work we’ve been doing at VOR and the impact we’re making in the field. Professionally, it means a lot, but it’s also motivating—encouraging me to keep pushing and exploring different areas of retrofit design.” 

What do you find most rewarding about your role at VOR? 

“What I find most rewarding is the tangible impact our work has on people’s lives, particularly those struggling with energy costs. Seeing how the measures we propose can drastically reduce energy bills and improve living standards is really satisfying.” Yonas adds that VOR has also given him a chance to shape his career trajectory. “I feel like I’m being given room to grow, both as a designer and eventually as an architect.” 

How would you describe VOR’s culture? 

“VOR is incredibly nurturing. It’s not hierarchical, and there’s a real openness in communication. You can talk to anyone, whether it’s a colleague or management. I think this fluidity helps young professionals like me feel supported and able to thrive.” He highlights how the culture is focused on learning by doing. VOR allows you to learn practically at your own pace.” 

What advice would you give to students or young professionals? 

Yonas encourages young professionals to be open to different career paths within the construction and building industry. “The industry is massive—there are so many avenues to explore. Don’t be in a rush to follow the traditional path. Explore other roles like retrofit designer, coordinator, or BIM specialist. You might find something that sparks your interest and allows you to develop skills that will make you a better architect or designer in the long run.” 

What are your future aspirations? 

“My immediate goal is to complete my Part 3 qualification and officially become an architect, which I hope to achieve by the end of this year. After that, I want to continue expanding my skill set in retrofit design, energy modeling, and perhaps even Passive House design.” Long-term, Yonas sees himself exploring commercial energy modeling and possibly integrating new technologies, like VOR’s LiDAR scanner, to work on conservation and restoration projects for sensitive, historic buildings. 

Final Thoughts 

“It’s been an incredible journey so far. VOR has offered a really supportive environment, and I’ve grown so much as a professional. I’m excited for what’s ahead, and I feel like this is just the beginning.”