5 minutes with … Josh Croft at Edmond Shipway

Why did you choose construction as a career? 

When I finished school, I wasn’t sure what career path to take. Many of my friends were pursuing trades such as plumbing or electrical work, an avenue I also considered until my grandad came across a job advertisement for a CAD technician/ trainee building services engineer in the local newspaper. I decided to apply, even though I wasn’t entirely sure what the role involved, and I ended up getting the job. So, I suppose you could say I fell into it.

What are you most proud of in your career to date?

Becoming a chartered engineer.

What has been the biggest challenge of your career to date?

The work-life balance. As is the case for many of us, switching off from work can be difficult and sometimes the biggest challenge is finding quality time not only for family and friends but also for yourself. Working is the easy bit! 

If you could change one thing about the industry, what would it be?

I would work towards better alignment in the industry’s approach to achieving net zero carbon. While good progress is being made, coordinating the various stakeholders remains a challenge. Ensuring that everyone is on the same page is difficult, particularly when time and financial constraints are major factors.

What is the most helpful advice that you have been given?

Learn from your mistakes. While no one intends to make them, they are inevitable, especially when you are starting out and learning your trade. What matters is how you handle those mistakes – using them as opportunities for growth.

I think there is a saying: “The person who never makes a mistake will never make anything.”

Name your favourite building in the world?

I would say Southwell Minster in Nottinghamshire, as it’s where I got married. 

Which famous building do you most dislike?

As a Manchester United fan, I would say the Etihad Stadium (home of Manchester City).

Which famous building do you wish you had worked on?

A historic building like Westminster Abbey or the Sagrada Familia. It would have been amazing to witness their construction at first hand and to say you were a part of it.

What single piece of advice would you give to someone starting out in your profession?

Ask as many questions as you can.

Who do you most admire in the construction industry?

There is no one specific person, but I admire anyone who has built a successful career in the construction industry while also supporting and mentoring others along the way. 

What is it like being you (and doing your job)?

Life is always busy, both in and out of work but, luckily, I enjoy being busy. I’m not someone who finds it easy to relax; I enjoy staying active, whether mentally or physically.

My job keeps me constantly engaged with new challenges and problems to solve, and outside of work my two young daughters – aged 2 and 4 – ensure there is never a dull moment! Balancing career and family life can be demanding, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Do you have a life philosophy?

Work hard. Some people say work smart and not hard but, although I understand this viewpoint, I personally believe that, if you work hard and dedicate your time to something, then you will succeed. 

What do you think your best quality is?

It’s difficult to answer, but I would probably say problem solving.

What trait do you most dislike in yourself? And in other people?

In myself, overthinking; in others, not listening.

Name three things that you like

Playing golf, being with family and friends, and the summer.

Tell us about a secret skill that we don’t know you have

Not really a secret skill but I was once half-decent at football. I have since hung up my boots in favour of sports that are less prone to injury – golf and cycling.

What is your most prized possession?

My family. 

Early bird or night owl?

Early bird. 

What is your favourite food?

Tapas.

What would your superpower be?

Time travelling would be pretty cool.