Progression at Cross-Guard: Andriy’s journey

At Cross-Guard, we’re always expanding – not just the business, but also the talents of our employees and the opportunities for progression that we offer. This week, we interviewed Andriy, one of our surveyors, about his experience progressing to surveying, how he finds working at Cross-Guard, and what advice he would share with anyone wishing to apply for a career in surveying. Andriy has worked for Cross-Guard for over 17 years, bringing with him a broad range of skills and experience.

How long have you worked for Cross-Guard?

A: I joined the company in 2002/2003 and still going strong now in 2020.

What did you do before surveying?

A: After finishing my studies and achieving a degree in Engineering, becoming an engineer was the natural next step. I started to look forward to building a career in the Engineering industry, and Cross-Guard became an ideal option for me.

Why did you want to progress to surveying?

A: During my personal and professional development, Cross-Guard provided huge support in every challenge during my employment. I realised that I was enjoying my job, combined with a supportive employer. My existing industry experience allowed me to pursue a career as an Engineer.

How would you describe the average day in your role as a surveyor?

A: A typical day begins with a quick review of my email in order to catch up with on-site works, as projects occur all day, every day, with priority engineering issues actioned first thing. Throughout the day, it could consist of project meetings, phone calls (typically discussing designs), logistic and cost factors for major projects.

When working from the office, I am busy with projects and engineering documents (scope of works, health and safety assessments, project schedules and financial forecasts), or screening and reviewing detailed design drawings. Apart from these responsibilities, I also attend site for construction and commissioning duties on most of the projects I am involved with, in order to assist with any challenges that occur in any way I can.

What do you enjoy most about surveying?

A: Engineering gives me satisfaction as I am always dealing with real situations that I can improve and influence. I know for sure, if you have a passion for engineering/problem solving etc, you will love it. There’s something for everyone. I think it’s a great sector to work in. I am constantly learning, which I find key to a healthy working environment.

What advice would you give to anyone considering a role in surveying?

A: I believe the ability to work with a team towards achieving a common goal is the most important skill required at any position and within any industry, which requires great communication abilities and consideration of other points of view. The willingness to travel and be on-site during survey/installation activities, and ownership of any tasks allocated to you, are also very important.

Enthusiasm for problem solving is a must, with the ability to work within strict guidelines, while still finding a unique solution – a key component to most engineering/survey problems. The determination to see a solution through to inspection is also very important, as is the ability to acknowledge and learn from any mistakes.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

A: I’m a big believer in the quote once you stop learning, you start dying (Albert Einstein). It feels really wonderful when you know that you are actually positively contributing something to society. Thank you, Cross-Guard, for this opportunity.