5 Minutes With… Andrew Watters  

In this “5 Minutes With…” interview, we spoke to Andrew Watters, Division Production Manager at National Timber Systems.

Andrew shares his journey from an apprenticeship as a wood machinist to a 13-year career in the timber industry, highlighting the industry’s exciting advancements and commitment to sustainability.

He emphasises patience, hard work, and the value of apprenticeships, offering guidance to those starting out in the field.

What first brought your attention to a career in engineered timber?

My journey into engineered timber started back when I left school. At the time, my dad was working in the timber industry, so it seemed natural to follow in his footsteps. I got a job as an apprentice wood machinist, and those early years were spent working on the shop floor. I genuinely enjoyed the hands-on aspect of it, but both my dad and I felt that I could offer more, so I started exploring paths to move into management.

I’ve now been working in the timber industry for the past 13 years, though it’s not something I set out to do from the beginning. I was in a different company that unfortunately went into receivership, which led me to seek new opportunities. That’s when I found my way into timber engineering.

While it was a challenging time in my life, I’m grateful it happened because it gave me a fresh start in a field that I’ve grown incredibly passionate about. Although I’ve been connected to timber in some form for most of my career, focusing specifically on timber engineering in recent years has been both fulfilling and exciting.

The timber engineering industry is constantly evolving, especially with advancements in technology and the development of new, innovative products. These changes make it an exciting sector to work in, and I feel fortunate to be a part of it. Looking back, I’d say I “fell” into timber engineering by chance, but it’s been a rewarding path, and I look forward to seeing how the industry continues to grow.

What has been your proudest moment in your career to date?

One of my proudest achievements has been being part of a transformative journey in occupational health and safety at National Timber Systems. Health and safety has always been crucial, but in 2021, under the leadership of Ian Halloway, our Health & Safety Business Partner, the company took a groundbreaking step to prioritise it at every level.

This shift was not just about compliance but about creating a culture of reporting, rigorous risk assessment, and continuous improvement. It involved implementing High-Reliability Organisation Theory (HROT) and principles, marking a significant departure from traditional health and safety approaches.

Among the initiatives I’m especially proud of is the introduction of regular “Health & Safety Power 5” meetings. During these sessions, production stops in the factories so colleagues can share observations, ask questions, and raise safety concerns. These meetings have significantly increased awareness, with teams not only embracing the changes but also taking ownership of their role in maintaining a safe environment.

Another key initiative I am particularly proud of is the implementation of “Workplace Safety Observations.” Conducted by all employees, these observations aim to identify both positive and negative safety behaviours. By recording and analysing the data, we can detect patterns and emerging risks before they lead to accidents or injuries.

Looking back, it’s rewarding to see how far we’ve come. We’ve established a culture where colleagues feel safe, supported, and engaged in improving workplace conditions. Being part of this collective effort and witnessing its positive impact has been a defining moment in my career.

What advice would you give to someone who’s just starting out?

I’d say patience and perseverance are key.

Early on in my career, my mentor, Dave, advised me not to rush my journey. He used to say, “Don’t be in such a rush to get where you want to be; this won’t be your forever job.”

Many people feel pressure to keep moving up or changing jobs quickly, but it’s so valuable to take time to learn the ropes, master your skills, and make a positive impact wherever you are.

The reality is that every role you take on will contribute to your growth, whether it’s your “dream job.” I think it’s important for new starters to remember that the skills they’re building now will eventually open new doors. Success often comes to those who are willing to learn, adapt, and prove themselves over time.

For those specifically interested in timber engineering, I’m a big advocate for apprenticeships. They provide a strong foundation in the industry and give you hands-on experience that’s hard to find in a classroom.

While the construction industry could definitely improve its support for apprenticeships, especially in production roles, it’s still one of the best ways to start a career. Building a career from the ground up with an apprenticeship can lead to a very fulfilling path if you’re patient and committed.

If you could change one thing about the construction industry, what would it be and why?

Rather than focusing on changing something specific, I would encourage the industry to accelerate its efforts toward environmental sustainability, especially with timber. Timber is such a versatile, sustainable material, and it has the potential to lead the way in eco-friendly construction. We’re making progress, but I believe more can be done.

What we need is a concerted effort from both the government and the industry to put timber at the forefront of construction. Timber-led construction projects would support sustainability goals, reduce carbon footprints, and showcase the many advantages of building with wood.

The Trussed Rafter Association (TRA) and others in the timber sector are well-positioned to support this shift, particularly in offsite construction, which has a lower environmental impact. With more backing and emphasis on timber projects, I believe the industry could make significant strides toward a more sustainable future.

Lastly, if you could invite any five people to a dinner party, who would they be and why?

I’d invite Queen Elizabeth II, Winston Churchill, Freddie Mercury, Robin Williams, and my best friend. Each of them brings something unique to the table. Queen Elizabeth II had such a wealth of life experience, and I’ve read she was known for her sense of humour. Hearing her stories first hand would be fascinating. Winston Churchill, with his leadership and wit, would have so much to contribute to a discussion, especially on resilience and determination.

Freddie Mercury’s presence would add vibrancy to the group. I admire his talent and creativity, and I’m sure he’d have endless stories about his journey and the challenges he overcame. Robin Williams is another person I’d love to meet—his humour and compassion were unmatched, and I think he’d bring an uplifting and funny energy to the group.

Finally, I’d invite my best friend to share the experience with me. Having someone to share these incredible conversations and memories with would make the evening even more special. Together, this group would provide a mix of inspiration, history, humour, and creativity, making it a dinner I’d never forget.