Nathan Martin: Three Months From Registering to Full Time Work
When Nathan Martin came to CEIS Ayrshire, he had no up-to-date CV and no clear route into the sector he wanted to work in. Three months later he is in full-time employment with Malcolm Construction in Johnstone, holds his CSCS card, and is moving trailers on site.
Nathan registered with CEIS Ayrshire, where he met Lynne, our Key Worker Team Lead. Lynne worked through a needs assessment and together they completed an action plan. They agreed four priorities: build a professional CV, attend the Beith Youth Hub for regular support, take part in the employability workshop programme, and look at accredited training relevant to the trades.
Building Skills and Confidence
Lynne referred Nathan to our Future Trades Programme, where he completed the Skills and Confidence, Workplace Health and Safety, and Employer Expectations workshops. The programme is designed to give candidates hands-on experience across a range of trades, from painting and decorating to fencing and plumbing.
Working Through the Setbacks
Nathan’s journey was not a straight line. His attendance on the Future Trades course was patchy at times, and Lynne kept in regular contact to keep him engaged. In June he sat the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test and missed the pass mark by a single mark. Rather than let that be the end of it, we provided him with the CITB practice app and re-booked the test, which he passed, securing his CSCS card.
A scaffolding work trial arranged through our employer links followed. Nathan gave it four days but found the pace and the physical demands of carrying heavy loads up and down scaffolding too much. He was honest about his struggles; we understood the situation and provided him with more support in looking for more suitable roles.
Turning Point
Using the new CV, Nathan applied independently for a role with Malcolm Construction in Johnstone. He met the employer and was offered the job the same day. The role is based in the yard alongside the shunter drivers, working four 12-hour night shifts a week. We helped by supplying his work safety boots and the employer provided his hard hat and high vis vest.
Lynne contacted Nathan to ask how the job was going. He said he was really enjoying the work and has started driving and moving trailers.
Nathan’s Feedback
“Lynne helped me with my CV, applications and interview prep, the support was excellent at every stage. Since securing a job I’ve gained financial stability, confidence and a better work-life balance.
I’m loving it. I’ve just started driving on Tuesday, moving trailers about. I don’t think I could have landed a better job if I tried.”
Nathan registered with us in April and was in work three months later. The setbacks along the way did not stop him. With tailored support from Lynne and the team he secured a job he enjoys and a platform to build a brighter future on.
Contact Us
If you’re looking for support to get into work or take the next step in your career, or you are an employer looking to develop your workforce, please get in touch.
