My journey with the company began as an apprentice elsewhere, long before formal apprenticeship programs were established here at Staircraft. It was a hands-on experience, and I embraced every opportunity to develop my skills, working across various areas of the business.
Starting on the shop floor, I gained a deep understanding of the craftsmanship and processes that drive our operations. Over time, I transitioned into customer service, where I was exposed to a different aspect of the business—problem-solving and direct customer interactions.
After several years in the business, I learned of an opportunity in sales. Given my familiarity with our customers and products, stepping into this role felt like a natural progression. This pivotal moment in my career deepened my understanding of both the commercial and operational aspects of the business.
As I continued to grow within the company, I transitioned back into operations.This transition into sales gave me an invaluable perspective which presented as an opportunity when I was asked to set up our Site Liaison Team. Helping the business bridge the gap between frontline customer interactions and internal processes.
Now as Operations Manager, this role brought everything full circle, allowing me to combine my shop floor experience, customer service insights, and sales knowledge to improve processes and drive efficiency. Having firsthand knowledge of daily challenges helped me bridge the gap between teams and develop practical solutions.
Many of us have dedicated decades to this company. There are a few of us throughout the business that have been here 25+ years and though our career paths have varied, we remain part of the same team, adapting as the business evolves and supporting each other along the way.
The business has transformed significantly since I started. In the early days, everything was done manually—designs were sketched on paper, measurements were taken by hand, and products were crafted by hand from start to finish. Today, technology has streamlined many of these processes, improving efficiency but also requiring new skills and training.
One of the most significant changes is in health and safety. Regulations are now more structured, which is essential for keeping people safe. However, balancing safety with productivity remains an ongoing challenge. The goal is to maintain efficiency while ensuring that everyone goes home safely at the end of the day.
For those just starting out, my advice is simple:
Looking back, I see how each role I’ve taken has shaped my career. For those willing to invest in themselves, the opportunities are here. If you commit to the journey, you can build a career just like I did.
It’s great to see that apprenticeships are now an official part of the business. They provide a structured way for people to gain skills and progress—something I had to learn on the job when I first started. The challenge today is encouraging people to fully engage with these opportunities and recognise their value.
Similar to when we introduced “Your Voice, Our Future,” I was excited because I believe in the importance of feedback. Improvement comes from listening to the people doing the work. I’ve always had an open-door policy—if someone wants to learn, grow, or share concerns, I’m here to listen.
Looking ahead, I see a mix—some employees will stay and build long-term careers, while others will move on. The business is evolving, and those who embrace change will find success. Success requires working with everyone, giving and getting support, and ensuring all expectations are managed and met.
Managing people is one of the most challenging aspects of my job, but I believe in leading with fairness and logic. The company is changing, and those who grow with it will find success. Looking back, I’m proud of the journey I’ve taken—from an apprentice to where I am today. The opportunities are here—it’s up to each individual to seize them.
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