Twenty-five years ago, Gareth Dawson walked into his first construction job interview with no qualifications, no long-term career plan and, by his own admission, little idea where the industry might take him.

Today, as Senior Project Manager, he is leading Esh Construction’s restoration of the Tyne Bridge – one of the North East’s most recognisable landmarks. As he marks 25 years with Esh, we caught up with Gareth to look back on the projects, people and opportunities that have shaped his career.

When you joined Esh at 18, did you ever imagine where the journey would take you?

Not at all. Construction was never part of the plan when I was at school, but once I got into the industry, I quickly realised there were so many different routes you could go down if you were willing to work hard.

What kept me interested was the variety. My first ever job at Esh was lifting paving slabs in South Shields, the next was something completely different. The more I learned, the more I wanted to challenge myself and progress.

But if you’d told me then that I’d still be here 25 years later, restoring the Tyne Bridge, I’d never have believed you.

Looking back, what role has Esh played in your development?

The opportunities I've received at Esh have shaped my career. From my first day as a groundworker, I've always been encouraged to learn, gain qualifications and keep moving forward. I've had some great managers over the years, especially John Saunders and Peter Fay. Peter was one of the first people to really back me and give me a chance to prove myself – something I’m very grateful for.

I still remember attending my interview when the company was operating from two terraced houses in Esh Winning that had been converted into offices. To see how far the business has come since then, and know I’ve been part of that growth journey, is something I’m really proud of.

Is there one project that stands out as a defining moment? 

Without a doubt, the Tyne Bridge restoration. I’ve worked on some fantastic projects across both the North East and Yorkshire throughout my career, but this is on another level.

It’s probably the biggest vote of confidence I’ve ever received. I don’t think I’ll ever beat it, if I’m honest. There's also a real sense of responsibility that comes with it. It's a four-year restoration programme and we're now at the stage where you can really see the project taking shape, with major repair, conservation and repainting works progressing across the bridge.

What makes it even more rewarding is the team around me. The scale and complexity of the restoration is unlike anything I've worked on before, and every phase requires a huge amount of planning, coordination and specialist expertise. We work really closely together, and I know I can count on them when it matters.

After 25 years, what are you most grateful for?

I’ve had the chance to work on some great projects, take on more responsibility and keep learning throughout my career. But when I look back, it’s the people that stand out just as much as the projects themselves. 

One friendship that stands out is with Alan Croft. We met early in our careers and have been close friends ever since. I was his best man and he was mine, and over the years we've shared all the big milestones together, both in and outside of work. That’s one of the best things about working in construction. You spend so much time with people, working through difficult jobs and celebrating the good ones, and some of those working relationships become friendships that can last a lifetime.

What advice would you give somebody starting out in construction today?

If you find a company that's willing to invest in you and support your development, make the most of it. As a business that started out as two men working out of the back of a van, Esh really does invest in its people. They have always backed me throughout my career and having the opportunity to progress and take on new challenges is so valuable.

You don't need to have your whole career planned out. Be willing to learn, work hard and say yes to new opportunities. The experience, confidence and qualifications will come with time.

Looking back, I've always tried to make the most of the opportunities that came my way, and that's made all the difference.

To find out more about opportunities at Esh Construction, visit www.eshgroup.co.uk/current-vacancies