"Qualifications aren’t important – they’re essential"
Alf Ramsay is the owner-manager of Birmingham-based Ramsay Plumbing & Heating. We caught up with him to talk about his career to date and why he’s glad he decided to go solo.
Q Tell us about your business
A I set up on my own in 2000 and was joined by my nephew after he completed his NVQ in 2002. Most of our work is domestic, though we relish our occasional commercial contracts – mostly pubs and nursing homes. We’re generally busy and 95% of our work comes from word-of-mouth recommendation. Everyone needs to know a good plumber, after all!
Q What’s your career history and what training have you done?
A I was always interested in a career in the building sector. I started a plumbing
course in Jamaica and when I came back to the UK went to South Birmingham College to complete a City & Guilds Advanced Craft qualification in Plumbing. My nephew James has an NVQ and we both have the ACS in Gas. As I see it, qualifications aren’t important these days – they’re essential.
Q Tell us about a project that’s been particularly interesting.
A It was replacing an uneconomical heating system in an old people’s home. We converted an outdated boiler with a super-modern energy-efficient one. The client was delighted with the job and we were too.
Q What do you enjoy about working in the plumbing and heating industry?
A One of the big things for me is that it’s a people business. Communication is
a skill in itself and I’m proud to hold CORGI Customer First approval which shows I’m achieving high standards of customer care. I pride myself on the fact that I’ve never had a complaint about my work and seeing a happy customer gives me a real buzz.
Q What are your plans for the future?
A I’d like to get more commercial contracts, which would mean security and regular work. It would be great to expand and create more skilled jobs for some of the young people out there with enthusiasm and qualifications.
Q What would you say to someone thinking of coming into the industry?
A: I’d encourage them wholeheartedly. It’s an honest living – very rewarding
if you’ve got the skills and qualifications to make a successful career. But I’d
also say that you’re only as good as the work you do – news of a bad job travels fast!
Q And finally – what does a good day at work mean to you?
A That’s easy: knowing that I’ve done a good job at a good price and that I’ve got a happy customer who’d willingly recommend me. It’s a great feeling to know that I’m in charge of my own destiny.
