August 2015
Trainee site manager John McCubbin has got his construction career off to a flying start – he’s helping to look after one of the most prestigious home developments in Scotland.
Story Homes’ Pentland Reach development of stylish 2, 3, 4 and 5-bedroom properties in Biggar is already sought-after by customers, and the award-winning company says it’s the start of a thriving new community for the area.
John McCubbin, Trainee Site Manager
John, 28, from Eaglesfield in South Dumfriesshire, is just a couple of weeks into his new role with the company – but he says it’s already a dream come true.
“My father and grandfather worked on building sites, so my family has a long history in construction, but I decided straight away that I’d like to go into the management side of it,” he said.
John completed an HNC in construction at Dumfries and Galloway College then an HND in construction at South Lanarkshire College before starting a construction management degree at Glasgow University. He’s also a time-served bricklayer.
“I’ve got the ideal situation now, because although I’m working for Story Homes, they’re allowing me to complete my degree,” he said.
John was encouraged by Story Homes’ excellent reputation as a high-quality house builder to apply for the trainee site manager role – and he’s even more impressed by Pentland Reach, where he works under the guidance of site manager Rikki Newlands.
“The homes on the development have a huge variety of different finishes, and they’re all of excellent quality – it makes it all really attractive, and a great place to live,” he said.
“My ambition is eventually to have my own site and be an award-winning site manager – and I’m in a good company to achieve that.”
Head of HR Francesca Stott said Story Homes welcomed John to the team.
“We have a strong commitment to training and developing quality staff like John,” she said.
“There’s a real national skills shortage in the house building construction sector, and we’re investing significantly in a people strategy that provides the excellent staff we need to support our ambitious growth plans.”
