In some ways, I would agree about the training. However, here in the UK, it has become little more than a money making exercise. The whole system has been stitched up between the training providers and the major contractors so no-one can work without a costly training course and an equally costly competence card. In my opinion, neither of these actually offer any proof of competence, unlike working alongside someone that knows the ropes.
Great article Mark and so true... after working 16 years in Demolition from labourer to Director, the most valuable lessons I've learned have been shared by the more experienced guys next to me.
On the other side of it, I've found it can be difficult to get the experienced guys to have the patience or aptitude to take the younger guys under their wing...
It is a shame to see such unique knowledge and experience go to waste but surely there is a solution...
Many thanks for the feedback John. You're 100% right - the ability to act as a mentor is not in everyone. But those that can pass on their knowledge are invaluable in their current career and - quite possibly - beyond.
Absolutely. Having a mentor is crucial within the industry, I realised from the beginning of my career in demo that there is a real lack of specific training for demolition tasks and equipment, skills came by just having a go and being taught by the bloke next to you (whether he was right or wrong!)
The UK and US seem to be way ahead of Australia (where I'm based) in terms of training and recognising the needs for demolition workers!
In some ways, I would agree about the training. However, here in the UK, it has become little more than a money making exercise. The whole system has been stitched up between the training providers and the major contractors so no-one can work without a costly training course and an equally costly competence card. In my opinion, neither of these actually offer any proof of competence, unlike working alongside someone that knows the ropes.
Great article Mark and so true... after working 16 years in Demolition from labourer to Director, the most valuable lessons I've learned have been shared by the more experienced guys next to me.
On the other side of it, I've found it can be difficult to get the experienced guys to have the patience or aptitude to take the younger guys under their wing...
It is a shame to see such unique knowledge and experience go to waste but surely there is a solution...
Many thanks for the feedback John. You're 100% right - the ability to act as a mentor is not in everyone. But those that can pass on their knowledge are invaluable in their current career and - quite possibly - beyond.
Absolutely. Having a mentor is crucial within the industry, I realised from the beginning of my career in demo that there is a real lack of specific training for demolition tasks and equipment, skills came by just having a go and being taught by the bloke next to you (whether he was right or wrong!)
The UK and US seem to be way ahead of Australia (where I'm based) in terms of training and recognising the needs for demolition workers!