Three people at George Leslie have shared their personal journeys for #NoWrongPathDay, a national campaign in Scotland that encourages young people to take the pressure off career choices and highlights that a winding road can lead to success.
The stories of Danny, Gary, and James challenge the traditional notion of a straight and narrow career trajectory, demonstrating that diverse experiences and a willingness to adapt are key to professional fulfilment.
From Trainee to Senior Planner
Danny, now a seasoned planner George Leslie, admits his career path wasn’t what he initially envisioned. After leaving school with a passion for technical drawing and mathematics, he thought he was destined to be a joiner. However, a different door opened when he joined George Leslie as a trainee in the estimating department. This marked the beginning of a remarkable 30-year journey.
Over the decades, his career has seen him rise through the ranks, eventually managing significant civil engineering projects. His experience has taught him a fundamental lesson: skills are transferable, and personal development is a continuous process. He advocates for a patient approach to career choices, urging young people to explore various options.
Don’t be afraid to try different things
until you find your perfect match
The Circuitous Route to Senior Site Agent
Gary’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and self-discovery. He left school with no clear direction, a decision that his school reportedly encouraged. Without a plan, he took on a series of diverse jobs, including stints at a call centre, a slaughterhouse, and as an apprentice greenkeeper. His break into the construction industry came as a driver and labourer.
His career gained momentum after he began working with his father and uncle, learning the trades of concrete repair and waterproofing. He moved between companies, steadily progressing from foreman to site manager before an opportunity arose at George Leslie. He joined the firm as a site agent for a major Scottish Water project; a role he considers the culmination of his long journey. Gary’s advice to those starting out is to prioritise finding a career that genuinely interests you.
hard work and continuous learning will naturally lead to rewards.
The Unconventional Rise of a Chief Estimator
James, the chief estimator at George Leslie, initially harboured a singular ambition: to become an aircraft engine design engineer. This led him to pin all his hopes on an apprenticeship with Rolls Royce, which ultimately fell through. Left without a clear path but was given a chance as a trainee civil engineering technician at a small consultancy.
This opportunity kickstarted a career of continuous learning and practical experience. He attended evening and day-release classes, earning both an NC and HNC in Civil Engineering. His career evolved through various roles, from draughtsman and setting out engineer to site engineer and site agent, working on projects ranging from motorways to ports. Over the past 13 years, he has focused on estimating, a role that has seen him tender for diverse projects across the UK, including in London.
James, who sometimes reflects on not attending university, believes his career is proof that on-the-job experience can be just as valuable as a traditional degree, especially in the civil engineering sector. His story underscores the campaign’s central message:
there are no wrong paths, just different routes to success.
