Career Profile
Published:
Name: Andrew Gerrie.
Age: 26.
Occupation: “Technowrap” 2k supervisor.
Getting there: I started working at Walker Technical Resources in 2002 as a warehouseman and had no experience of composite repairs before joining the company. Gradually, I built up knowledge and understanding of WTR’s pipeline repair systems and was given in-house training in preparation for going offshore as a trainee. After four-and-a-half years, I was promoted to offshore supervisor and have spent the last year and a half as a WTR “Technowrap” supervisor, travelling the world repairing pipelines.
Best bits: We have a great team of people at WTR and I get on really well with all my work mates. The travel involved is fantastic; I get to work in places all over the world – as a company, we have a very strong reputation for high standards, which means many of the major oil and gas operators contract us to do work internationally for them.
Worst bits: There currently is no formal qualification for composite repair technicians, but WTR is working with Banff and Buchan College to create a recognised SVQ.
Perks of the job: The international travel is definitely a perk. I don’t think there are many people at 26 who can say they have seen so many diverse cultures and travelled around the globe as much as I have – while being paid to be there.
Further ambitions: There really is a sense of teamwork at WTR and we all want to see the company achieve its growth plans, becoming bigger and better. On a personal level, WTR operates a mentoring and professional development programme and I would like to learn as much as I can from the people around me to advance up from supervisor to become a WTR composite repair trainer and train people all over the world.
Advice to others: Keep your head down and work hard, and appreciate and learn from the guys who are there to guide and help you.
