Celebrating Our Team’s Unique Journeys
As #NoWrongPathWeek comes to a close, we’re taking a moment to reflect on a powerful message: success isn’t a straight line. The traditional route of school, college, and a linear career path is just one of many ways to build a fulfilling and successful future. Here at Lochlie Construction Group, we’re proud to have a team built from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and journeys.
To celebrate, we’re sharing the stories of two incredible members of Team Lochlie whose careers prove there truly is no wrong path.
From Labourer to Apprentice: Colin’s Next Chapter
We’re thrilled to give a huge congratulations to Colin Borland, our newest Plumbing & Heating Apprentice!
Colin’s journey with us is a testament to dedication and the power of finding your passion at any stage. He officially began his Plumbing and Heating Apprenticeship after a year of hard work as a valued labourer on our team. As a mature apprentice, Colin brings a wealth of life experience and a formidable work ethic to his new role. He has already proven himself to be a key team player, and now he’s taking the next step to build his skills and work toward a trade qualification.
When asked about the new role, Colin said he’s “excited and grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow within the company.”
We’re just as excited to support him on this journey! Congratulations, Colin, as you get stuck into this next chapter.
From Dance Floor to HR Manager: A Conversation with Kirsty
The path to a career in construction isn’t always forged on a building site. To showcase the diverse opportunities within the industry, we spoke with our very own HR Manager, Kirsty, whose journey demonstrates that success can be found on many different roads.
We asked Kirsty a few questions about her path, the skills she’s gained, and her invaluable advice.
1. Looking back, what was your initial ambition after school, and how has your actual path differed?
“When I left school, I had ambitions of becoming a choreographer—and even qualified as a dance teacher! But after working as an Area Manager in my 20s, I discovered a real passion for people management and team development. That shift led me back to education, where I studied Business Management and later completed a BA (Hons) in International Business and HR Management.”
2. What’s one skill you’ve learned outside of formal education that has been crucial to your success?
“One of the most valuable skills I’ve developed outside of formal education is resilience—being able to adapt, stay the course when things are tough, and keep learning along the way. It’s been fundamental to building a fulfilling career.”
3. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to a young person receiving their exam results who might feel unsure about their path?
“To any young person receiving their exam results and feeling uncertain: remember that academic results are only one part of the journey. Life and work experience can be just as powerful in shaping your career. I chose to go back to study at 28, and it was absolutely the right move for me. There truly is no single path to success. Take your time, explore your options, and trust that your journey will unfold in its own time.”
A huge thank you to Colin and Kirsty for sharing their stories with us.
We hope their journeys have inspired you and demonstrated that whether you’re starting on the tools, changing careers, or returning to education, there are countless pathways to a rewarding career in the construction industry.
