Chris joined Balfour Beatty as a Trainee Engineer, after A-levels. Since joining, he has continued with his studies and is now working towards a degree in Construction Management at Sheffield Hallam University.
Chris’ current role, as Assistant Engineer on the construction and refurbishment of Clifton (Lower) Comprehensive School, involves him in an ever-changing array of activities. Among other things, Chris is responsible for setting out works; carrying out surveys; monitoring Health & Safety; maintaining records of work carried out and monitoring quality; keeping the site diary and labour figures; liaising with external parties, such as architects and engineers; and communicating with subcontractors.
Clearly, it’s a varied existence and Chris likes the fact that the industry never stands still. It makes construction an interesting and challenging place to work. At the same time, it’s good to know that Balfour Beatty has the experienced staff necessary to guide and develop trainees, like Chris, into competent professionals.
Training is part and parcel of that, of course, and Chris is delighted that Balfour Beatty has such a positive attitude towards the training and continuous development of its staff. Balfour Beatty’s training scheme for ‘day release’ employees covers topics such as Health & Safety, people skills, commercial awareness and productivity – all of which help to develop the skills learnt on site. Further support, if any were needed, for Chris’ advocacy of the part-time route to qualifications. “The experience gained on site far outweighs the ‘theory’ side of things at university,” says Chris.