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My Career
What made you join Balfour Beatty?
I worked in the China Clay industry from 1979 then in 2004 I joined Edgar Allen, which was acquired by Balfour Beatty in 2006. After spending much of my previous career on the shop floor, my job is now office based which is the direction I wanted my career to take. Also I was interested in railways in my youth, so the whole thing came together.
What does your current role involve?
As Contracts Engineer I carry out functions similar to a Quantity Surveyor requiring an understanding of the engineering drawings. Basically I look at what the customer initially ordered, the price and limits of which are set, then I work out a realistic price for whatever the customer requires beyond that limit.
What job skills do you have to contribute to your work?
A basic engineering mindset, an understanding of engineering principles and a good understanding of IT – especially Microsoft Excel which we use extensively.
Best/worst parts of your job?
The chance to work on a new product, such as the Modular system that Track Systems has designed, developed and is now used as a high speed and cost effective way of installing trackwork.
Best career advice you have been given?
Get trained up in IT. I did and it helped to get me noticed.
What trait(s) do you admire in co-workers?
Thoroughness – picking up the job and seeing it through.
What would you like to be doing in five years’ time?
To be involved more directly with customers on the commercial side of the job – but I will need to improve my product knowledge first.
Sum up your feelings to the company/ your role or career choice.
I am proud of the achievements of the company. Joining Balfour Beatty Rail Track Systems has opened the door to a very different and interesting kind of engineering. |
