Choosing the Hands-On Route
University wasn’t the path I chose. I knew early on that I wanted something practical and hands-on a role where I could engage directly with real-world problems rather than purely academic theory.
By chance, I came across a job advert for a Junior Technician position. But it was during the interview and laboratory tour that everything clicked. Seeing the lab environment, the testing equipment, and the nature of the work, I could instantly picture myself doing the job. It felt tangible, technical, and purposeful.
If I had to describe the start of my career in one word, it would be:
Determined.
Not because everything was easy but because I was committed to learning, improving, and proving myself.
Finding Purpose and Progression at CTS
After nearly two decades with one organisation, I made the decision to join CMTL. What motivated that move was recognising a gap in the Scottish market and an opportunity to be part of a laboratory delivering a higher standard of testing and service.
CTS later became part of that story through the merger between CMTL and CTS. Following the transition, I chose to remain. The reason was simple: the work we had started wasn’t finished, and I’ve never believed in leaving projects half done.
CTS has been instrumental in shaping my journey. I joined as a Laboratory Manager and progressed into the role of Operations Manager, supported by trust, responsibility, and the opportunity to broaden my perspective beyond purely technical work.
Today, my focus spans not only technicians and test results but also operational and commercial performance — understanding how units and the wider business function effectively. From balancing overheads and revenue to monitoring capacity and utilisation, the role demands both technical credibility and strategic awareness.
The Reality of the Operations Manager Role
There’s a common assumption that an Operations Manager’s role is primarily desk-based dominated by reports, schedules, and emails.
While administration and coordination are certainly key components, what often surprises people is how hands-on the role remains. Much of my day involves investigating the finer details behind results:
The role is less about overseeing from a distance and more about piecing together evidence, analysing data, and ensuring that every result is accurate, traceable, and defensible. It’s a continuous process of problem-solving, often like solving a puzzle where small details can make a significant difference.
Defining Success and Making an Impact
Success, in my role today, is measured by reliability, efficiency, and quality.
It means both sites are operating smoothly. It means accurate results and on-time reports. It means satisfied clients and a supported team. It also means maintaining strong utilisation, minimising non-conformances, and delivering value without compromising standards.
The impact of our work reaches far beyond the laboratory. Every accurate, traceable test result protects CTS’s reputation and accreditation while providing clients with data they can rely on for critical decisions. In construction, one incorrect result can delay projects, increase costs, or compromise safety. That responsibility underscores everything we do.
Lessons Learned and Advice for New Starters
Looking back, one of the most important lessons I’ve learned is this:
Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
No one expects you to know everything on your first day. Early in my career, I spent too much time trying to work things out alone. Asking sooner accelerates learning, builds understanding, and prevents unnecessary mistakes.
For anyone starting out and feeling unsure of where they fit — that feeling is entirely normal. Focus on the fundamentals. Get the details right. Stay curious. Be reliable. This industry values careful, willing learners, and careers often evolve in ways you don’t initially anticipate.
Many professionals begin in the lab or on site and progress into supervisory, managerial, and operational leadership roles through dedication and continuous improvement.
Busting the Myth: “It’s Just Dirty Manual Work”
One myth I’d gladly challenge is the idea that construction materials testing is purely manual, dirty work with limited progression.
Yes, there is fieldwork. Yes, there is lab work.
But the profession is highly technical and deeply skilled, involving standards, accreditation, data analysis, client liaison, compliance, and management. It offers genuine career development opportunities and a clear pathway for those willing to apply themselves.
This is not simply “testing dirt.” It’s a respected technical discipline that underpins safety and quality across the construction industry.
Looking Ahead
What excites me most now is continuing to develop as a leader particularly in overseeing two sites effectively, strengthening cross-site efficiency, and supporting the growth of the next generation of technicians and supervisors.
Long-term, my goal is to contribute to CTS’s continued reputation as the go-to provider for reliable, high-quality testing.
Because while my role has evolved significantly since day one, the core principle remains unchanged:
Deliver accurate, dependable results every time.