Developing Careers – Case Study – Leanne Gallagher
Leanne’s previous role as a Special Educational Needs (SEN) Teaching Assistant in a special needs school, was rewarding but very challenging. She loved supporting the children’s development; however, the role unfortunately took a toll on her mental and physical health. Seeking a change, Leanne turned to the construction industry and enrolled on the Skills Bootcamp in Plant Operations. Initially unsure on her future career goals, Leanne saw an opportunity re-skill and enter a well-paid field with great career prospects.
What career did you work in before joining the Skills Bootcamp in Plant Operations? I was an SEN Teaching Assistant in a special needs school. It was very rewarding seeing the kids grow and develop. A lot of the children were non-verbal, so I would often have to use sign language to communicate. Although I loved working with the children, the role itself took a toll on my mental and physical health. That is when I knew I needed to make a change.
Why did you decide to transition into construction plant? Working on machinery is definitely not the career path I ever thought I would take. After leaving my job, I was very much hitting a brick wall with what I could do next. I have an uncle who works in construction, and he suggested that I investigate the Skills Bootcamp in Plant Operations. At first, I thought he was mad. I had not considered a career in construction. But after a bit of research, I could really see an opportunity for myself – a fully funded, structured training programme, an opportunity to re-skill, a guaranteed interview, and a chance to enter a sector with great pay and career prospects.
I had nothing to lose and everything to gain!
How was your experience on the Skills Bootcamp? My experience was fantastic. I was very nervous (and a little shy) over my first couple of days. It was all very new to me, so I kept myself to myself. But that did not last long. Everyone was so welcoming and including. I was the only female on the course, which I had anticipated. But the trainers and the other learners were very supportive of my journey. The trainers’ plant knowledge was amazing. They supported me every step of the way. As I say, I was a complete novice, but the structured and ‘step-by-step’ approach, embedded in the Skills Bootcamp delivery, ensured I was site-ready on completion.
What machines did you train on? On my first Skills Bootcamp, I trained on the articulated dump truck (ADT) and the roller. Once I finished my training, I completed an interview and was offered a position on-site to start building my experience.
How was your experience on-site? Although I was a little nervous, I did feel like the Skills Bootcamp had prepared me for my first opportunity. The trainers had helped me to develop my skills, and my confidence had gradually increased throughout the training. Once again, I was the only female on my first job, but the Skills Bootcamp had already broken down any barriers I had regarding that. I felt like I was challenging the norm! The teams on-site have continued to encourage me from Day 1. They were aware that I was a new operator and were keen to support my progression. I am really thankful for their support.
What progression opportunities have you had since the Skills Bootcamp? That’s what I love about this industry. There are so many opportunities to progress. After building my experience on the ADT and roller, I took the opportunity to upskill onto the 360 excavator. I felt proud of myself at this point. It was nice to be recognised. I was doing a good job!
What are your future career goals? Short term, I would like to keep doing what I am doing. I am keen to build my experience on the machines on which I have now trained. Longer term, I would like to progress onto bigger machines.
What would you say to others who are considering a career transition? I would say that construction plant should be at the top of your list. Do not think twice! It was not something I had considered before, but the industry is facing a huge skills shortage, which means they are looking for new talent to enter the industry. The Skills Bootcamp is a great way to get into it. It is fully funded by the Department for Education, so you do not need to worry about any upfront costs as an individual.
What are the benefits of completing the Skills Bootcamp in Plant Operations? The training provides you with site-ready skills, which helps to boost your confidence when you start your first job on-site. On top of that, there is a huge demand for skilled workers in construction, so job security is a big tick. The pay is also great in the industry. I am now able to save for my future and I do not have to worry about counting the pennies. Most importantly, I now love what I am doing. I look forward to getting up every morning to start my working day. My mental health is back on track too.
