Joshua Grayson - Joiner, WDL Building Services
What were your career ambitions growing up?
Growing up I never had a clear vision of my future career, however I have always known that I was very hands on and liked making things with wood, so would like a practical job.
Tell us about your current role?
In my current role as a joiner, I am constantly changing and learning new sets of skills. One of my favourite parts of the job is the variation of tasks such as building a roof to fitting a kitchen.
What is your proudest business achievement?
My proudest achievement so far is getting a distinction in my Level 2 Carpentry and Joinery course.
What are you currently working on?
Currently the WDL firm and myself are working on a number of renovations including an ongoing extension.
Tell us about the team you work with?
WDL as a whole is a fantastic place to work with the support of a great group of teammates and a boss that constantly helps us grow inside and outside of work. I’m lucky to have been mentored by Dean Johnston, a talented joiner who has put lots of time and effort into teaching me his knowledge and skills, helping me pass my course and be where I am today.
What is the best piece of business advice you have been given?
The best advice I have been given is asking myself “would I be happy with this in my house?”. By doing this it constantly ensures quality and high standards that both the customer and I can be proud of.
What has been your biggest challenge?
My biggest challenge so far has been adapting my skillset to get around any problems I am faced with as every job is different.
Who are your heroes inside and outside of business?
My biggest hero would have to be my grandpa. Not only was he a fantastic role model growing up (being a fireman and hard worker), but I feel that he also started off my career as a joiner as from a young age I would help him around the house and in his garage with many different projects and jobs he would do himself as a ‘handy man’.
How do you like to unwind outside of work?
Outside of work I like to keep active as much as possible, whether this be going to the gym, boxing, or having a kick about with my mates.
Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
In five years’ time I would like to be a well established joiner, helping to give high end renovations and extensions around the North East.
www.wdlnortheast.co.uk