Billy Jones, Millcroft’s Managing Director, discusses the many benefits that scaffolding offers those willing to take on the industry's challenges and opportunities.
I recently voiced my concerns about attracting and retaining young talent in the scaffolding industry. However, it's crucial to highlight the numerous benefits available to those willing to embrace the unique opportunities and challenges of our sector. I’ve dedicated my career to scaffolding, so I want to share why it's an excellent career choice for ambitious individuals seeking a rewarding profession.
Challenging perceptions
Scaffolding as a career is often overlooked by people entering the workforce. There’s still an image problem, with many seeing it as purely physical work – a job rather than a career. But this perception couldn’t be further from the truth. The scaffolding industry offers diverse opportunities and benefits that many young people are unaware of. So it’s our responsibility within the sector to challenge and change this perception by promoting the many advantages and explain why it’s such a good career choice.
A strong sense of community
There's a strong sense of community and camaraderie among workers. Scaffolding teams often develop firm bonds that are hard to find in other industries. Having each other's backs (literally!) is paramount, especially when working in sensitive and complex locations.
At Millcroft, our teams work in challenging environments, including confined spaces like tunnels for rail infrastructure projects and even in water. These challenging settings foster a sense of unity and support that makes the work incredibly rewarding. Teamwork also provides a support network that can be invaluable to newcomers and the connections formed in this industry can lead to lifelong friendships.
Fitness and well-being
For those who dislike being tied to a desk all day, scaffolding offers an active alternative. The work is naturally physical, providing a daily workout that helps maintain fitness and overall health. Although the work can be demanding, many find the physicality of the job rewarding and stimulating.
The nature of scaffolding work doesn’t just contribute to personal fitness; it also promotes mental well-being. The combination of being outdoors and physical exertion can boost mood and reduce stress levels. Additionally, having the structure and discipline of a full shift on site or at our HQ provides a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
Variety and mental stimulation
Another significant benefit of scaffolding is the variety of work environments and projects that keep you mentally stimulated. Unlike many professions confined to a single location, scaffolders can work on multiple sites, each with unique challenges and settings. At Millcroft, our projects range from heritage building restorations and towering skyscrapers to major infrastructure projects like HS2, so every day is different. This constant change of scenery keeps the job exciting and prevents the monotony that often comes with other roles.
Financial reward and stability
Contrary to some misconceptions, scaffolding can be financially rewarding. Entry-level positions offer competitive wages and plenty of opportunities for advancement. As skills develop and experience grows, so do potential earnings.
Take Mark Stimpson’s journey at Millcroft as an example. Starting as a labourer in 1985, Mark has worked his way up through various roles – supervisor, project manager, contracts manager – before being appointed to the Millcroft board as Operations Director in 2018. Mark’s story shows that with dedication and the right attitude, there’s no limit to how far you can climb in this industry.
It's also worth noting that scaffolders will always be in demand despite challenging times for the construction industry. Whether for construction, infrastructure, renovation or refurbishment projects, the need for scaffolders ensures job security is higher than in many other sectors.
Diverse opportunities beyond the scaffold
While the image of scaffolding might be someone working at height, the industry is not limited to working on tools. Various roles are available that cater to different skills and interests. These include site supervisors, contracts managers, accountants, human resources and health and safety professionals.
For instance, Corita Ware joined Millcroft as a credit controller/office administrator but has since progressed to become a valued project coordinator for our HS2 projects. Similarly, Richard Ramkissoon started his career as a ganger man and used his on-the-job experience to move into a health and safety advisor role.
Embracing innovation and technology
Far from being outdated, the scaffolding industry has embraced cutting-edge technology, creating exciting new roles and opportunities for people to work with AI, 3D imaging, and 4D video.
Ahmet Ulusoy, who joined us in 2021 as an apprentice through the then-government’s Kickstart Scheme, has progressed to junior estimator and 3D/4D visualiser. Ahmet now plays an important role in creating detailed simulations that give our clients a better understanding of the proposed solution and construction sequence.
Training and skills development
Another appealing aspect of a career in scaffolding is the extensive training and support available. At Millcroft, we’re committed to nurturing young talent and providing opportunities for career development. This can be through formal apprenticeships, on-the-job training, or specialised courses. There are always opportunities to expand your knowledge and capabilities.
Lewis Mence, another success story from the Kickstart Scheme, underwent five months of induction, training, and mentorship at our CITB-approved training centre and scaffolding yard in Greenwich and is now a trusted team member on our sites around the capital. Lewis understands the industry well and has a healthy attitude that will help him progress even further.
Setting realistic expectations
While scaffolding is rewarding and can be a lucrative career, it requires a strong work ethic and a willingness to start from the bottom up. Newcomers need to understand that success in scaffolding doesn’t happen overnight. It comes through experience and practical skills gained over time. By setting realistic expectations and providing clear routes for career progression, we can ensure that recruits understand both the demands and rewards of a career in this sector.
Embracing opportunities
Scaffolding offers a fulfilling and dynamic career path, brimming with opportunities for those who are ready to seize them. From the strong sense of community and camaraderie to the financial rewards and diverse career paths, this is an industry where individuals with enthusiasm, open-mindedness, team spirit and dedication can thrive.
For people looking for more than just a job – those who want to be part of something greater, see tangible results of their work, and have opportunities for growth and advancement – scaffolding is an ideal career choice. I started working as a scaffolder when I was 14, and I can honestly say that joining this great industry is the best decision I’ve made.
