In this Powerhouse Perspectives interview, we caught up with Gloria Chikaviro, Trainee Civil/Structural/Architectural (CSA) Manager at Gratte Brothers | Building Services & Engineering (also known as Gratte Brothers Limited).
Just over a year into her time with us, Gloria has been learning the ropes and thriving with the support of our experienced site teams. Her journey from labourer to Trainee CSA Manager is a testament to how talent and determination can open doors in the industry.
Tell us about your role as Trainee CSA Manager!
“A lot of my role involves working with the temporary works department. It involves a strict process that must be followed so we can keep track of the temporary works that are needed to enable the permanent works to be built.
Usually, the temporary works are removed after use, so this covers things such as access scaffolds, props, shoring, excavation support, falsework formwork, etc. As there are no costly foundation requirements and all components are manufactured off-site, temporary works play a huge role in helping us keep the costs of our projects low for our clients.
I help to manage and update the temporary works register, which is a detailed record that tracks all temporary works on site. Regularly updating the register has helped me understand more about the hire period dates for tools and access equipment we need to look out for over the course of a project. This ensures our projects aren’t being delayed due to equipment hire and we keep hire extensions to a minimum, ultimately saving our clients time and money!”
How has your site experience contributed to your understanding of building services?
“Working closely with our CSA manager, quantity surveyor, electrical and mechanical engineers has exposed me to many different aspects of building services, enhancing my on-the-ground knowledge about the site. I love working this way as I’m much more involved with the project lead team, who possess a wealth of knowledge and experience for me to learn from.”
Tell us about your journey within Gratte Brothers!
“I was working with Gratte Brothers as a labourer through FirstStep for 6 months before joining as a contracted employee just over a year ago. I threw myself into the opportunity; the role was new, and I expected challenges with much to learn and being the only woman on site (…which didn’t scare me at all!) I put my big girl boots on and went forth with the job. This was unchartered territory for me, but I’m navigating well and I’m still excited to learn and grow.”
Are there any recent achievements you’d like to spotlight?
“I have a training and development plan under the mentorship of Labour Manager, Richard Harris, and Construction Director, Martin Gold. They have really helped me gain confidence to see myself as a Site Manager, and I am taking it in my stride.
So far in the plan, I have completed a 2-day Scaffold Inspection Training course to understand more about key health and safety aspects and legal requirements for robust on-site scaffolding inspection procedures. I am also one of our site’s designated Fire Marshals and First Aiders.
I am a frequent attendee of Gratte Brothers Group quarterly ‘Health & Safety Forum’ held at Head Office. This is a fantastic opportunity to share work-related opinions, issues and concerns that staff are facing both professionally and personally. It has given me insight into how to initiate difficult conversations with colleagues, particularly related to mental health concerns with men. No one needs to suffer in silence; we need to normalise these conversations so we can direct people to appropriate support.”
Do you have any advice for the construction industry?
“The construction industry needs more diverse voices and perspectives” says Gloria.
“If you’re willing to learn and put in the work, there’s a place for you here. The construction industry needs to appeal to the next generation of professionals; therefore, it needs to lose the age-old concept that it’s a male-based industry. To encourage the next generation, the industry needs to attract more diverse cultures and accept new ideas and new technology. Gratte Brothers is embracing the change and encouraging me to be involved in different groups and working parties, this gives me the confidence to speak up and be heard.”
Have you been involved in any ‘firsts’ for the company?
“I am Gratte Brothers’ first Trainee CSA Manager! So, it has been a unique experience gaining invaluable knowledge on site. Transitioning from being a Labourer to Trainee CSA Manager has been an amazing journey so far. And I’ve earned it by stepping out of my comfort zone and going the extra mile with everything I do. The support I receive from everyone is tremendous. My approach is to always ask questions and learn from the answers I get.”
Looking ahead, Gloria is currently working towards gaining her Site Supervisors Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS) and Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) certificates as part of her professional development programme. Furthermore, Gloria is pursuing additional planning and programming in construction training which will introduce the concepts and practice of project management.
Gloria Chikaviro’s journey from labourer to Trainee CSA Manager shows what’s possible at Gratte Brothers when talent meets opportunity. Her hands-on experience and dedication to safety and training set a great example for anyone looking to build a career in construction.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in Building Services and Engineering industry, check out our Vacancies page to see our latest opportunities.