Tom
Steeplejack
See what a real apprentice has to say about working in the construction industry.
At a glance
RoleSteeplejack
Aged: 21
Subject of study: I’m studying for an NVQ Level 2 in Steeplejacking at the National Construction College East in Bircham Newton.
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Which company do you work for?
I work for Proteq (Northern) LTD Steeplejacking which is a
company which does all sorts of work, mainly at height. Our main
clients are within the oil industry, power stations and the like.
They are also an industrial rope access company.
What are the good bits about your job?
I really like my apprenticeship. I'm enjoying learning different
methods and ways of doing things such as erecting steeplejack
ladders. It's also good to meet new people.
Why did you choose this career?
The reason I got into it was because I got made redundant at my
old company and decided that I wanted a change of career. At that
time I got offered a job with a steeplejack firm. After a two month
trial I was given the opportunity to go to college and gain the
relevant training through an apprenticeship.
What do you do day-to-day?
In my daily job I ladder chimneys and erect scaffolds, flyers
and fans. I also do painting, inspections and concrete repairs on
things like flare stacks or cooling towers. It's good that you
never have two days the same.
Each job is different which keeps it interesting. You also get
to travel a lot and see places that most young people don't get to
see, with the added bonus that you're getting paid.
What's the coolest thing you've done so
far?
I am probably most proud of laddering the steel 42-metre stack
at the college.
What would you say to anyone who wanted to try
this?
I would say to others go for it. You'll enjoy it. Although my
mates say I must be mad!
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In ten years time I see myself as hopefully doing this as it is
what I love.