From Carpenter to Health and Safety Expert

Justin Montellier, who fast-tracked through an 18-month course in just six months to improve his career prospects, is an example and inspiration to anyone thinking ‘new year, new career’.

Justin did the NEBOSH National General Certificate to get him started and found a position as Health and Safety Manager for a construction company. He noticed, however, that the health and safety industry, in line with many other sectors, was demanding an increased level of professionalism from its practitioners. He realised that if he wanted his career to progress and significantly improve his prospects, he would need a recognised qualification and membership of a respected industry body. Gaining experience on the job, as he’d done in the past, was no longer going to get him where he wanted to go.

Despite his dislike of examinations, he decided to study for the NEBOSH National Diploma, which leads to full membership of the leading health and safety industry body, IOSH. However, the course is usually completed over an 18-month period, and Justin was reluctant to embark on such a long period of study, especially as he and his wife were expecting their first baby. He decided he would try to complete the course in just six months and started in April 2006.

He chose RRC Training because of its good reputation, coupled with quality training materials and friendly tutors and support staff.

By adopting smarter study methods, working three nights a week and at the weekends, Justin was ready to sit the examinations in July, and was notified in September – and he passed all three units.

“To pass all three units in one sitting at the first attempt is a real feat,” says Gary Fallaize, MD of RRC Training, “it’s testament to Justin’s determination and hard work.”

Justin’s career is already flying high. He is now Project H&S Advisor for a leading financial services company, with responsibility for four £250 million building and refurbishment projects.