Builder's Hero: Daniel Bullock

Chip off the old block

Joinery company boss Daniel Bullock is determined to help mould skilled workers of the future.

For Daniel, 36, wants to give them the kind of start he never had. That’s why he’s hired a total of ten apprentices – one for every year his company, Alexander Bullock Furniture, has been in business.

Says Daniel: “When I was starting out I struggled to get work even though I had good qualifications. “That’s why I set up on my own and ever since I have made it my business to give young people the chance to train with my firm.”

“Apprenticeships are a great way of giving people experience and skills."

And his commitment to giving others a step up on the ladder has helped his Cardiff-based business, specialising in joinery and wood furnishings, expand.

Apprentice

Today it employs eight people and has an annual turnover of half a million pounds.

With a high level of skill needed for their fir m’s work, Daniel reckons apprenticeships have been key to their success.

 He adds: “Staff are the most valuable asset you have. Almost every member of my team has been an apprentice here at some point. Giving young people the chance to get trained and qualified is a great feeling. It’s been brilliant for planning how the business may develop in the future too.”

Foreman Martin Roules, who began working for Daniel six years ago, reckons his supportive boss has made all the difference to his career.

The 27-year-old says: “I began work here as an apprentice, and have seen many come through the door since then to be trained up in the same way I have been.”

The firm’s training policy has recently won it Investors in People status – a respected stamp of quality for firms of all sizes.

And Daniel is in no doubt of the value of apprenticeships: “I get real satisfaction out of knowing that if I invest in my 16-year-old apprentice, and provide them with the skills and opportunities, they might