At SafetyBuyer, we know that real-world experience is invaluable when it comes to building a successful career in construction. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance, learning from industry professionals who’ve been there and done it can provide valuable insights into the challenges, rewards, and evolving standards of construction safety.
With that in mind, we spoke to Bruce Spencer-Knott, Director of Minster Surfacing, one of the UK’s leading independent asphalt and tarmac surfacing contractors. With more than 25 years of experience, Bruce has seen first-hand how technology, safety standards, and career pathways have developed over time. He shares his story, the lessons he’s learned, and advice for anyone considering a career in construction, including the growing opportunities through apprenticeships and degree apprenticeships.
Career experiences
Can you tell us about how and why you embarked on a construction career, and how that led you to where you are today?
"After I left school, I started working on building sites and roadworks across the country as part of a small team. I would often be the man using a jackhammer to dig up roads, or I’d be in the trenches beside the roadworks laying the reinforced edges. It was hard, thankless work, but the money was good and it’s always rewarding when, at the end of the shift, you look behind you and see a pristine, freshly laid road."
"At 19, I’d earned enough to buy my first house in my hometown, Lincoln. But after ten years of working on the roads, I came home one evening after a particularly long and difficult day and realised I couldn’t keep doing it forever. It was backbreaking work, and I promised myself that I’d do everything I could to make the work better, safer, and more efficient."
"I love technology and I’m always looking for ways to improve things. That inspired me to push myself forward. I started taking a night course for a diploma in civil engineering and worked my way up the ladder. After a few years, some friends encouraged me to start my own firm. In 1999, I re-mortgaged my house and founded Minster Surfacing."
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned during your time in construction?
"That there are always ways to improve how things are done."
"In construction - especially in roadworks - there’s often a tendency to do things the way they’ve always been done. That mindset can hold back progress, both in efficiency and safety."
"Technology is constantly evolving, offering better ways to work, but many in the industry are hesitant to embrace change. Investing in new safety measures, materials, and equipment is a risk, but in my experience, it almost always pays off. My goal has always been to make the work safer, greener, and better for my team and the industry as a whole."
Advice to new starters
What would be your most important piece of advice for anyone at the start of their own construction career?
"Don’t settle for an office job just because it seems easier. A career in construction offers huge opportunities, especially if you’re willing to learn by doing."
"If I hadn’t started on-site, working hands-on, I’d never have gained the experience that led me to where I am now. There’s no better way of understanding an industry than being on the ground and learning how things work first-hand."
What kind of training or educational pathway would you recommend for young people looking to start in construction?
"Learn by doing, but don’t neglect your qualifications. You don’t need to have all the answers straight away - apprenticeships, degree apprenticeships, and on-the-job training offer a great route into the industry. If you’re willing to put in the effort, most employers will see the value in helping you develop your skills and qualifications as you go."
"I started out in a van, travelling to building sites, but I took a night class in civil engineering to build my knowledge and improve my prospects. Today, there are even more pathways to enter the industry. If you’re interested in a career in construction, apprenticeships are a fantastic way to gain experience, earn a wage, and build your future at the same time."
What’s the most important personal quality to have for success in construction?
"The motivation to work. You only get out what you put in. If you’re willing to persevere, build your skills, and take opportunities as they come, you’ll do well."
"Sometimes, you need to take risks and try new things, but if you keep learning and pushing forward, success will follow. It rarely comes to those who sit and wait for it."
Health & Safety
Has health and safety become a more important consideration in construction work overtime?
"Without a doubt. Construction work has become a lot safer since I first started, but there’s still work to be done."
"As a business owner, I don’t want to send my team into unsafe working environments. While risk can’t be eliminated completely, we take every possible step to keep employees, supply chain partners, and the public safe. Training, risk assessments, and adopting the latest safety innovations are essential to improving the industry’s safety standards."
"The industry as a whole need to continue improving working conditions, safety procedures, and public awareness - especially when it comes to roadworks. Too many drivers ignore speed limits and signage, putting workers at risk. Changing this culture is crucial for making road surfacing a safer, more attractive career option for young people."
What is the key to a safe and productive working environment in construction?
"Time pressures in construction are intense. Clients want projects completed quickly, but rushing can lead to costly mistakes and increased risk. We never compromise on quality or safety - if a deadline is unrealistic, we’ll push back or bring in extra resources to get the job done properly."
"A strong team culture is also essential. We make sure everyone understands that safety is a shared responsibility, and no corners should be cut. We take pride in our work, and that means ensuring every job is completed safely, efficiently, and to a high standard."
Final Thoughts
We’d like to thank Bruce for taking the time to share his insights into construction careers, safety, and industry evolution. His experience highlights the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and commitment to safety in shaping a successful career.
If you’re interested in learning more about career pathways in construction - or the essential health and safety equipment that keeps workers safe - explore our Safety Hub or browse our wide range of construction safety solutions at SafetyBuyer.
