We spent 5 Minutes With Cyndi Chandler, UK and Ireland Managing Director of Simpson Strong-tie. Read on to hear about the moments that have shaped her career so far, and the advice she’d give to anyone starting out in the world of trussed rafters and timber connections… What first brought your attention to a career in … Continue reading “5 Minutes With… Cyndi Chandler”

We spent 5 Minutes With Scott McAndrew, Technical Director of BPC Building Products. While sharing some of his career highlights, he recalls how fixing up cars with his dad first sparked his interest in technical matters. Read on to hear about the moments that shaped his journey, his love of Glasgow Rangers, and the advice … Continue reading “5 Minutes With… Scott McAndrew”

5 Minutes With… is the Trussed Rafter Association’s interview series that shines a light on the people shaping the timber engineering industry, from designers and manufacturers to business leaders and innovators. Each interview offers a quick but meaningful insight into their career journeys, proudest moments, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. When a … Continue reading “5 Minutes With… Luke Roberts”

In the latest edition of the 5 Minutes with… interview series, the TRA spoke with Chris Powell, Sector Director for Residential at Saint-Gobain Off-Site Solutions. With over 20 years of experience in timber engineering and a strong commitment to nurturing new talent, Chris has recently stepped into the role of Chair for the TRA’s Eastern … Continue reading “5 Minutes with… Chris Powell”

In this edition of 5 Minutes with… interview, we spoke to Chris Osborne, Sales professional at Hundegger, and learn about his career from furniture to future-proofing timber construction. Chris has carved a unique path in the industry. With more than four decades of experience, his story is one of global adventure, machinery innovation, and a … Continue reading “5 Minutes with… Chris Osborne”

In our 5 Minutes With… series, we shine a light on the people behind the trussed rafter industry. From designers and manufacturers to directors and rising stars, we’re finding out what makes them tick, how they got started, and what advice they’d give to the next generation. This time, we caught up with Julian Elsbury, … Continue reading “5 Minutes with… Julian Elsbury”

In this edition of 5 Minutes with… interview, we spoke to Allen York, General Manager at Donaldson Timber Engineering’s Warrington branch. After a successful career in construction hire and sales, Allen made the leap into timber engineering, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective. Here, he talks about what drew him … Continue reading “5 Minutes with… Allen York”

Stepping into a new industry is always a challenge, but doing so in a different country, with a different language and entirely new principles, takes resilience and determination. In this edition of 5 Minutes With… the TRA spoke with Lorrana Barros, trainee trussed rafter and metal web joist designer of Wolf Systems to hear about … Continue reading “5 Minutes with… Lorrana Barros”

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 … Continue reading “5 Minutes With… Andrew Watters  “

“5 Minutes with…” is an interview series designed to bring TRA members closer together, helping to build a cohesive and unified voice within the timber engineering industry. In this feature, we caught up with Monika Thomas, Business Unit Manager – Offsite Construction at ITW, who recently joined TRA’s Management Committee. Monika shared her journey into … Continue reading “5 Minutes with… Monika Thomas”