We sat down with Joseph Webley, who recently joined us as a Trainee Infrastructure Technician. Joe has now been with us for a year, and followed a very unconventional career pathway into engineering – having previously worked in a garden centre.
What made you decide to join Cambria?
I first learned about Cambria from one of my best friends, who works here. When he would discuss his work I was always interested, and I thought, maybe it’s something I would enjoy too. So, I decided to push myself and make the jump, and now I’m here a year later!
Before I came to Cambria, I was working in a garden centre driving a forklift and doing stock management, so this has been a huge career change. I’m really enjoying it so far.
What does your role at Cambria look like day-to-day?
I’m a Trainee Infrastructure Technician, which involves a lot of modelling work. I work alongside the engineers on a range of things, like ground models, pipework and hatching up buildings for catchments. I spend a lot of time using software like AutoCAD and Civil 3D. My skills are expanding every day, thanks to the team.
Which projects do you like working on the most?
The Channel View project has been very cool to be a part of, as I see the site every day as I pass by on my commute to and from work. It feels good to be involved in something significant for the local community, it’s given me a real sense of achievement.
How did Cambria support you when you first started?
Everyone has been amazing! They’ve all taken time to see if I’m settling in okay, and regularly check to see if I have any questions. It feels like the whole team has been involved in teaching and training me up. I’ve had so much help when it comes to learning to use different software, and they’ve pointed me towards specific courses, opportunities and books to help me learn.
What kind of training have you received, and what has helped you progress the most?
A lot of the training is very hands-on – throwing you in the deep end to see how you can cope with specific tasks and deadlines. The past year has really been about understanding what the job involves. I’ve found this is the best way to learn though, and is much more important than going on a specific course.
What have been the biggest things you’ve learned since joining?
First and foremost, confidence. I never saw myself in an office environment as I’ve always been good with my hands, so it’s nice to think I’ve taken the leap and proven to myself that if I put my mind to it, I can achieve it – career and otherwise.
What has helped you settle in at Cambria and feel part of the team?
Just everyone’s attitude as much as anything. Lewis and the rest of team are always checking in on me, whether it’s a quick chat about work, football or our social lives. It feels like a family where everyone is looking after each other. I couldn’t ask for a better environment to work in and to start this new career.
What are you hoping to achieve next as you continue developing in your role?
I’d potentially like to become an engineer in the future. I’m currently a technician, which is a highly skilled profession in its own right, and I really enjoy the role. I am excited to build on this foundation by expanding my skills, knowledge and experience as I work towards progressing my career.
I think I would enjoy learning more about 3D modelling, and being more client-facing in my role. One particular aim of mine is to get familiar with Civil 3D – I really want to progress more with this software and take on big projects.
