A father and son are building their careers alongside one another at Midlands housebuilder Spitfire Homes.
Steve Beach joined the company as senior quantity surveyor three-and-a-half years ago, bringing more than two decades of experience gained with some of the UK’s largest housebuilders.
His 19-year-old son Harry followed him into the construction industry almost a year ago after deciding that site management offered the right balance between practical work, responsibility and career progression.
Harry has since worked across several Spitfire developments, including flagship schemes within its Bespoke Collection, while learning from different site managers.
SUPPORT AND INSPIRE
Steve says: “It is essential that we continue to inspire and support the next generation to carry forward the skills and knowledge we have built over the years. Without young people entering the industry, we risk losing the expertise needed to deliver the homes and communities of the future.
“Young people need a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn. They need to be proactive, and have the confidence to take feedback on board. Nobody’s expected to get things right first time – that is how you develop.”
Harry gained early experience working on home improvements after school but decided he wanted a career combining time on site with management opportunities.
RIGHT FIT
He says: “When I was on the tools, I realised pretty quickly that I didn’t want to do that for the rest of my life, but I also didn’t want to be stuck inside an office all day. Site management just felt like the right fit, straight away.
“There’s so much room to progress, which is a big part of what excites and motivates me. I am excited to grow into being an assistant site manager in my own right. Every site manager I have worked with across the different Spitfire schemes has taught me something different, helping me to build my own approach and experience from each person.”
Spitfire Homes is a member of The 5% Club and has pledged that at least 5% of its workforce will consist of trainees, apprentices or graduates.
Contractors spending more than £500,000 annually with the housebuilder are also required to employ at least one apprentice on an active Spitfire development.
Steve adds: “I’d definitely encourage parents to talk to their children about the opportunities available in construction. There are many varied career paths, excellent opportunities to progress and the chance to take real pride in creating homes and communities that will last for generations.”
