KWL encourages progression amongst its people

Cain Foston, 29, was recently promoted from Electrician into the role of Supervisor. This comes after just 4 years working with the company.

Pleased to have been given the opportunity, he was initially supported with a 4-month development role, which involves coming off his tools, into the office environment where he was supported by others. He explains:

“From day one, I have always enjoyed working here. The management team at KWL have such a refreshing approach, as they encourage and support progression amongst its people. This is the only time I’ve experienced this type of environment as the company seems to want employees to enjoy a fulfilling career, rather than just turn up to do a job. I think this is unique in the area and feel fortunate to be in this position.”

“As a new supervisor, KWL equips me with everything I need – training, management support and encouragement.”

“Another huge benefit of working at KWL is that all of the work is local. Working in the trades its typical that a lot of work will be outside of the area so living in digs and being away from home becomes part of the job. In previous jobs that was fine for me, I enjoyed it but now that I have a young family, being able to put my little boy to bed and seeing him everyday before work means the world to me.”

“The firm is really family orientated and I feel like my family is important to KWL too.”

“Day-to-day I am the site operatives’ first port of call, I manage 12 electricians and 3 apprentices. Therefore, Health & Safety is a huge part of the job.”

Cain is working on a variety of projects which include adaptations in tenanted properties around Hull and also reactive maintenance works. During the development role he worked on re-wires, kitchen installations and the fire doors upgrade around the City.

He explains:

“The work is really varied so the role is constantly evolving. No-two days are the same which keeps it really interesting.”

“Training is ongoing and I’m just coming up to 2391 Electrical Inspection Testing Training. If there is anything in particular I want to do that supports the role, KWL is always happy to support it as they see the benefits too.”

“I see a really positive future here, although I don’t want to jump up too fast – I want to be the best at what I do and I still have so much to learn. I’m young and feel like I have plenty of time, but it is good to know career progression is possible within the business.”

Cain mentors Apprentices within the electrical section and enjoys this side of the job. When he was working on his tools he found it rewarding to work with the first year apprentices, helping them get off to the best start.

“I like working with Apprentices. We show them how to use the PDA system; where to find specific information about the jobs they are working on, COSHH assessments, etc. It all helps to build confidence.”

KWL is currently recruiting Apprentices for this year’s intake. Electrical is always a popular trade amongst young people and Cain admires those who are keen to take on the 4 year apprenticeship, as some other trades are shorter which would mean they can move into a full-time job much quicker. Electrical takes more time and then continues once the Apprenticeship is completed.

He is now supervising people that he had previously worked alongside. The transition has been good. He says: “I think working by the book as an electrician has set me in good stead, making it easier to do my job, creating mutual respect.”

Cain appears contented, in what seems to be all areas of his life. He and his fiancée have a 3-year-old son with another baby on the way. He is really enjoying life right now. Long may it continue.