BSB Structural Limited Stuart Shields By Ross Sneddon

BSB Structural Limited Stuart Shields By Ross Sneddon P 7

• My Uncle Stuart was born on the 12 th August 1974 in a place called Ballymena in Northern Ireland • Born the eldest of three children and lived in Northern Ireland, Germany, England before he finally moved to Scotland when he was 6 years old. • He went to Plains Primary School before moving to Caldervale High School. • In 4 th year he did his work experience with a local steel fabrication firm in Coatbridge, Sanderson Structures. He was then offered a job as an Apprentice Draughtsman after his exams. Stuart Shields – BSB Structural

• He worked in various roles throughout his early working years, gaining valuable experience in all areas of construction. • When he was 27 years old, he was given a Managers role with one of Scotlands largest fabrication firms, Bone Steel in Wishaw. • When he was 30 years old, he and two friends decided to start a new business called BSB Structural in 2004. The business draws, fabricates and builds steel frame buildings. • Their first factory was in Linlithgow, and employed 4 people to help fabricate new steel buildings. • One of the first projects they did, was a new extension to Carnbroe Primary. Stuart Shields – BSB Structural

• In 2006, another friend joined the Board of Directors, now making 4 owners and the business grew. • In 2008, the business started and finished one of its biggest projects, an extension to the St Enoch Shopping Centre. If you ever visit the St Enoch Centre and shop in Hamleys Toy Store, my Uncle Stuart built it. • In 2010, the business moved to Motherwell, into bigger offices and a bigger factory. • The new offices are next to Motherwell College, which is good, as the business takes on new apprentices every year. Stuart Shields – BSB Structural

• Now the business employs 20 staff which includes Draughtsman, Quantity Surveyors, Quality Manager, Health & Safety Manager & Accountants. • 45 factory operatives to manufacture the steelwork, which includes platers, welders & machine operators. • 12 steel erectors to build the steel frames. • The business now employs over 70 people, and turns over £ 15, 000 a year. Stuart Shields – BSB Structural

• In 2016, the business will continue to grow and the business will start the BSB Academy. This will help 12 people aged 20 -24 who are unemployed gain 1 years experience in the construction industry. They will also get lots of training and qualifications which should help them find future work in the construction industry. Stuart Shields – BSB Structural