Meet Luke O’Gorman – Lead Roofing Instructor

27th July 2022

Find out more about the newest member of the team, Lead Roofing Instructor, Luke O’Gorman…

Could you please tell us about your past work experience?

I have been a roofing instructor for 6 years. 2 years part time and four years full time. The part time years were done alongside my roofing business.

I was the Director of my roofing company for 8 years after setting up on my own at 22. Before that, I worked for companies within the roofing sector from leaving school at 16.

Can you describe a typical day at Simian?

Everyone is really hard working! I have been made to feel really welcome and have been able to ask other team members where I have needed help etc. Simian currently offers a waterproofing systems Apprenticeship, and the next addition to our Apprenticeship portfolio will be roof slating and tiling, and I am really looking forward to getting that up and running!

Is there one aspect of your work in particular that you most enjoy?

I really enjoy passing my skills on and seeing learners improve. I am passionate about roofing and get a great sense of satisfaction from watching the learners progress and grow their skills during their time on the courses.

What advice would you give those considering a career in the construction industry?

A career in construction is a fantastic one to pursue. If you are hardworking and want to progress, the sky is the limit.

There are skills shortages nationwide in the roofing and construction sectors, and demand continues to grow. This means that wages will continue to increase. Having a ‘trade’ and learning practical skills is something that there will always be a demand for. Even in times of economic uncertainty and with more and more jobs being replaced by AI etc, there will always be a need for practical trade skills such as roofing and scaffolding.

It is also a good way to maximise your earning potential at a young age. I achieved my Level 3 qualifications in roof slating and tiling at the age of 19, and I was earning considerably more than some of my peers that pursued the educational route.

In your opinion, what is the most important piece of guidance you give youngsters making their way in the industry?

Work hard and always work safely!

Never put yourself at unnecessary risk. You only get one back, one set of eyes, hands, lungs and knees.

People getting into construction today have the benefit of safe systems of work, guidance and legislation that has been implemented to protect them from hazards and risks. You should be grateful of this, and always protect yourself as much as you can because it wasn’t always that way!

Before working at Simian, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?

I have had the pleasure of working on some beautiful buildings in my time as a contractor.

We specialised in heritage works which meant that we got to work on a lot of listed and interesting buildings.

This is probably boring for everyone else (!!) but I got to re-slate a section of the Town Hall roof where I live in Rochdale. It is a Grade One listed building that was built in 1871. I was really proud to have worked on it, as it has significant meaning to me with me being from the town, and I feel fortunate to have been able to work on it and have a small part in the history of the building.

What would be your dream job?

To be the lead roofing instructor for Simian!!!

I loved being a roofer and I love helping people to become roofers.

Other than that, a lottery winner.

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be?

St Lucia

Favourite film?

The Godfather Part 2

Favourite food?

Mexican

Have you ever had your 15 minutes of fame?

Not yet