As a third generation plasterer, I started plastering at the age of 16. I was trained by my father, who was trained by his father. I worked as a plasterer for 30 years, both running my own Company and working for others in a supervisory category. An injury prevented me from continuing in the trade. As a result of this, I decided to share my experiences with those wanting to learn plastering and joined Burnley College as a part time Plastering Lecturer in 2003. In 2004 I became Programme Leader for Plastering at Burnley College, , and run a successful department. Through teaching plastering I have also gained personal achievements of becoming a freeman of the Worshipful Company of Plaisterers, and freedom of the City of London.