Jay plasters his way to a construction career

In the coastal town of Lancing on the south coast of England, 23-year-old Jay Chatfield Jay began his foray into the construction industry at the age of 16, working alongside his father, who is a skilled plasterer, as his assistant while still attending school.

Seeking to broaden his horizons after school, Jay found a job with the building and DIY supplies group, Gardner & Scardifield. They have several branches in Lancing covering every aspect of construction from aggregates to ironmongery, decorating to electricals. This gave Jay plenty of variety and scope to develop. His growth within the company led him from the decorating centre to his current role in the vibrant bathroom showroom.

To enhance his skills and anchor his career in the building materials industry, Jay has embarked on an apprenticeship that focuses on bathroom and kitchen design, coupled with fitted furniture expertise. This strategic move not only enhances Jay’s technical skills but also provides him with a well-rounded view of the industry’s business aspects, a valuable asset in his growing retail career.

He says:

“The experience has been enjoyable and insightful, and I look forward to learning as much as I can from this opportunity. It’s not just about acquiring new skills; it’s about understanding the industry from multiple perspectives.”

Jay’s apprenticeship seamlessly blends theoretical knowledge with practical tasks, emphasising real-world application. It includes webinars that significantly contribute to Jay’s knowledge of selling techniques and product awareness, which are essential elements in his evolving role.

“The building materials sector is dynamic, and time management is crucial. And I’ve cultivated this skill through meticulous planning and organisation. To anyone planning on entering the industry, writing tasks down and completing a list every day is the best way to maintain time and manage your days efficiently.”

Central to Jay’s apprenticeship journey is the guidance provided by his mentor, Matt Brunton, who oversees the showroom and imparts a wealth of knowledge and experience.

“Matt has given me a lot of knowledge and experience in my short career already in the showroom. I have learned a lot about the industry through him and continue to do so.”