Careers in Construction Month - From Operative to HGV Driver

I joined FM Conway almost four and a half years ago as a water and drainage operative and have now been working as a HGV driver operative within the same team for just over two years. Our team’s main focus is the cleaning, clearance, repair, and maintenance of drains and drainage systems across the highway network and other facilities. This aim means that we are constantly on the move to get to different sites with different problems, allowing me to see a variety of places around the South of England and meet lots of people from all different backgrounds and cultures. I am always on the move, using my initiative to solve problems, and getting hands-on experience in high-pressure environments.

I grew up with horses and always knew that I wanted to work in a hands-on, outdoors job. My mum has worked for FM Conway for longer than me in the same role and she suggested that I look into working in the construction industry, especially FM Conway because she loves the people that she works with. I applied and from my first interview I knew this was the right industry and business for me, because my interviewer was bubbly and made me feel really comfortable. In my time working here the people have remained a core positive of my job, I enjoy the opportunity to build relationships with people in the offices, as well as other operatives from my depot in Sittingbourne and the other depots across the south, including Chelsfield and Dartford. I get on with everyone and enjoy meeting and speaking with lots of people.

Beyond the environment here, FM Conway has a culture which pushes you to succeed. The company funded my HGV training course allowing me to grow from operative to HGV driver operative. In this role, I am in charge of my two-person team; I drive us everywhere, which is exciting as I often get to drive in new places, and I focus on the information, taking photos, and using the remote controls, whilst my operative does the jetting and washing the gulleys. This role, and the many people that are often on site, gives me a level of responsibility which I really enjoy and helps me to thrive; it is also rewarding to see the tangible impact that our work has on the communities we work in.

FM Conway has offered me opportunities to develop my career further, including the position of foreman at my depot, but I’m not yet ready to give up the lorries and fun of travelling around. I’m pleased that the chance for me to progress is there, and my career in construction has given me such great opportunities to grow and develop as a person as well as in work.