From Forklift Driver to In-Demand Heavy Machinery Expert: John's Journey in Teesside

A Transformative Journey

A heavy machinery worker who took the plunge and left his job after more than a decade has revealed how a raft of courses opened up great new opportunities for his career.

Securing New Opportunities

Self-employed John Currie has secured work on the Teesworks site and various locations across the region thanks to adult education courses funded by the Tees Valley Combined Authority. He encourages others to seize the opportunity for personal development in 2025.

John stated, “There was a lot of work on cherry pickers last year – I had a ring around and I’ve been in touch with HST Ltd. As soon as I got that licence, I got a job straight away at Wilton doing a bit of work in there.”

Embracing Change

After leaving his 12-year forklift driving job, John was inspired by the rise of Teesworks. He pursued further qualifications to enhance his skills and secure more work opportunities. With support from the Seymour Academy in Hartlepool and MP Plant Training in Stockton, he gained qualifications in various machinery operations, including dumper and excavator driving.

John also utilized funding through the Combined Authority’s Adult Skills Budget to obtain his IPAF Scissor and Boom licence from Health and Safety Training Ltd.

Local Job Market Insights

John emphasized the abundance of local job opportunities, stating, “I was always working away before, but I knew there was going to be plenty of work, so I jumped in while it was hot and got work straight away.” He has managed to work on SeAH Wind’s monopile factory, located conveniently close to his home in Eston.

Support for Career Change

With support from the UK Government, the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority provide a range of free courses for adults looking for a career change into high-demand sectors. John believes that anyone interested in a career change should take advantage of the available resources.

John remarked, “All you need is the ticket and the confidence to get to work... sometimes you’ve got to get out there and persevere with these things.”

Community Impact

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen praised John’s determination and highlighted the importance of contractors like him in supporting the local economy. “John is a great example of someone who took a chance by going it alone,” he said. “We want as many people as possible to follow his lead and use the support we provide to get work on our projects.”