A trainee assistant site manager is building a path to success within the construction industry, since joining David Wilson Homes through its Armed Forces Transition Programme.
The programme offers ex-servicepeople a valuable opportunity to transition into the construction industry and advance their careers. Through the scheme, participants receive comprehensive experience, training, and unwavering support to embark on a rewarding path in site management.
Lionel Robinson (43), who works on the homebuilder’s Pastures Place development in Corby Glen, supports the on-site team to maintain a five-star rated customer service by co-ordinating the trades, ordering materials, and delivering regular health and safety checks. Since joining the developer in September 2022, he has been enjoying all the perks that the industry has to offer while developing valuable skills through the programme, which helps to ensure bright and promising futures for those making the transition.
For Armed Forces Day (24th June), Lionel highlighted how the scheme can facilitate a smooth transition for those seeking a fulfilling career beyond their military service. He said: “I have always had an interest in the housebuilding industry and my dream is to one day build my own home.
“I now get to do this every day, albeit not for myself, but it is still thoroughly enjoyable and I’m learning so much which will help me build my own dream home one day. When researching companies, I was very impressed by the reputation and reviews I found which navigated me towards David Wilson Homes East Midlands.
“These reviews were not just from customers, but employees alike. Once I joined the team, I found that the support and patience during the ongoing learning gave me the freedom to stand back and assess how things are done without having the pressure of making the crucial decisions.
“Simultaneously I’m watching how experienced managers make their decisions and what processes lead them to such. This has helped me tune my thought processes from that of a military nature to one that is construction focused, which is not as dissimilar as you would think once you understand the fundamentals of the build.
“I feel like I am part of a team again, something I would have really missed about the Army and I am proud to say that although I am no longer a soldier, I am now David Wilson Homes homebuilder and happy with my new career choice.” Lionel embarked on his military journey in 2001, at the youthful age of 21.
His inaugural posting led him to Germany, where he served with a heavy artillery unit stationed in Gutersloh. Over the course of his distinguished career, Lionel’s trajectory included diverse assignments, ranging from roles in Air Defence to operating UAVs (Drones) and Light Guns.
His journey culminated in the esteemed position of Regimental Quartermaster. Throughout his 22-year tenure in the Army, Lionel (pic) undertook numerous operational deployments to conflict zones such as Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Falkland Islands.
Additionally, he participated in extensive multinational training exercises alongside esteemed allies, including the US, Polish, Canadian, Bahraini, French, and Israeli Armies. In Lionel’s time with the developer so far, he has been savouring the rewards of his efforts, experiencing a sense of accomplishment. Reflecting on his journey, he said: “Receiving my very first customer survey was immensely gratifying – it signified a tangible achievement.”
The Pasture Place site team also clinched the homebuilder’s esteemed Team of the Quarter Award in 2024, underscoring their collective dedication and excellence. Looking ahead, Lionel added: “I’m working towards achieving my first ever NHBC Pride in the Job Award, and looking forward to achieving more accolades such as this along my professional journey.”
Lionel is encouraging Armed Forces personnel who are contemplating a career change to consider the construction industry as a viable and rewarding option. He said: “David Wilson Homes’ Armed Forces Transition Programme is put together very well, and it has a chronological method of delivery that coincides with build phases.
“The skills and ethos that have been instilled into every serviceperson in the British Army are extremely valuable and transferable in the construction industry. Work hard, enjoy your work and feel valued, it’s a good recipe for getting out of bed in the morning.”
