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Meet the team – Michelle Shaw

3rd December 2019

Michelle Shaw

Could you please tell us about your past experience in the scaffolding industry? 

I am quite new to the Scaffolding industry, having only started with SIMIAN earlier this year, but my first impressions are great and I love working with such a great team! My last job was scheduling computer engineers for maintenance and repair visits, so in some respects, it’s very similar!

Can you describe a typical day at Simian? 

No two days are the same.  I have a variety of tasks from arranging consultants for site training, Inspectors to client sites and adhoc tasks that I never thought would be part of the scaffolding business.  Every day is a school day!

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

Everyone is so friendly and down to earth, from Colleagues to clients to the delegates who attend the centre.  This makes learning my role and what is needed from me so much easier.

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

With me working on the consultancy and inspection side of the business, in the short time I have been here I have learned that this qualification can open up so many fantastic opportunities in regards to career paths you can take from site labouring through to Consultancy, Inspections, Health & Safety work, you can progress to a level you want to work to.

In your opinion, what is the most important piece of guidance you give youngsters entering the industry? 

Keep yourselves safe and well, mentally and physically.  Keep up to date with your qualifications and refresher training, the world is your scaffolding oyster.

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

In my previous job, due to a change in their business needs, I had the opportunity to meet and train new staff out in Bulgaria, an opportunity and experience I thoroughly enjoyed and will never forget.

Aside from working in a scaffolding training centre, what would be your dream job?

Would love to be able to have the means to volunteer in a dogs home, walking in fields or on a beach all day would be a dream!

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

Anywhere that has scenic, breath-taking views! My current bucket list includes the Grand Canyon & Niagara Falls.

Favourite sports team 

“I’m not at all sporty! So c’mon Team Couch Potato! ”

Favourite film?

Shawshank Redemption

Favourite food?

Anything cooked by someone else .

Have you ever had your 15 minutes of fame?

Not just yet but I am sure my time will come, maybe for a lottery win. Here’s hoping!