Chapter 9 - "Work hard and don't be late" - Advice that shaped my career

Neil Aston – General Foreman

I joined CHC in 1997 as a 21-year-old after spending three years at Gale Common carrying out compaction testing on PFA and shale from Kellingley Pit. When CHC took over the contract from VHE, I was given the opportunity to join the team and stayed on site for another three years. Looking back, that was the start of a career that has now spanned almost three decades.

Throughout my time at CHC, I've always been keen to learn new skills and take on new challenges. I started by learning to operate the tractor and bowser, before moving on to dumpers and then excavators. Each new role helped me gain experience and confidence, and in 2011 I was promoted to Foreman.

One of the highlights of my career was receiving my Rolex after 25 years of service. It was something I had always wanted and a moment that meant a great deal to me. It represented the years of hard work, commitment and loyalty that I've dedicated to CHC.

A person who had a big influence on me was Dave Little. Early in my career, he taught me a lesson about the importance of being on time. It's something I've never forgotten and a value I've carried with me throughout my entire career.

What I enjoy most about working at CHC is the variety. No two days are the same, and that's one of the reasons I've enjoyed being part of the business for so long.

If I could give one piece of advice to someone starting their career, it would be simple:

Work hard and don't be late.

That advice has served me well throughout my career, and it's a big part of why I'm still proud to be part of the CHC team today.