Carter Construction hold Long Service Awards Evening
Their contribution to the success of Carter Construction was acknowledged by its managing director this month when 19 employees were thanked for their loyal service and presented with gifts including crystal glassware and travel vouchers.
Among them was Gordon Creese, the company’s longest-serving employee, who this month chalks up half a century with the company.
Gordon left school in 1961 - a year that saw Russian Yuri Gagarin become the first man in space, JFK sworn in as America’s youngest-ever President and at Kingsholm, Alan Townsend was chosen to captain the Cherry & Whites.
Gordon joined Carter Construction after meeting company chairman Brian Carter at a youth employment event. He spent four years training in carpentry and joinery, with one day a week at technical college, before gaining his City & Guilds certificates.
Today at 65 he has made thousands of window and door frames and more intricate architect-designed items in oak and ash, such as reception desks and panelled ceilings.
“If as a youngster you can find the right firm and something you enjoy, it can be a very pleasurable life,” said Gordon. “I always think seeing the finished article – a school, an office or house – is very satisfying.
“In the 1960s, apprenticeships were sought after and if you wanted to work with your hands, being a bricklayer, a plumber or a carpenter was great. These skills never go out of fashion and demand for them is as big as ever.”
Recalling the days when his weekly pay packet was £2 11s 5d and at the age of 18 he could afford to buy a stylish Vauxhall Victor, Gordon said he was pleased that apprenticeships are again a popular career choice with young people.
Managing director Michael Carter said staff continuity has real business benefits. “We pride ourselves on the loyalty of our employees and this largely defines our company, because a consistent team ensures the quality we want to provide.
“Fifty years with one company is an incredible achievement. Gordon’s loyalty embodies everything we stand for and today our apprentices are still taught the importance of quality workmanship,” added Mr Carter.