I joined Colas in September 2017, my father also works there, which was also a decisive factor in my choice of this job. From the outset at Colas, I truly appreciated the friendly atmosphere, the team work, being treated not only as mechanics, but as human beings. The theory and practice of this profession are completely different. If someone goes step by step just according to what they've learnt, it doesn't work. They often have to improvise and see through it all. I learned a lot more practically by working than theoretically, but the basics are provided by theory, and we have to start from there. It's a complex profession, challenges are common, that's why I'm always there. What I like most about my work is the diversity, there is no monotony here, and you can learn from it. Since I joined the company, tremendous progress has been made. It is constantly evolving in terms of tools and machines and conditions are improving.
 

In the construction sector, there are little known trades which are essential to keep projects running smoothly. Marion, dispatcher with the Bas-Rhin agency in eastern France since January 2020, works behind the scenes to streamline logistics in the field. Every day, she collects the equipment and manpower needs from the site managers, with whom she is in constant contact. Along with the service providers and subcontractors, she plans the schedules and deliveries for the next day. She works closely with operational teams and believes that soft skills are essential to doing her job right. "By interacting with people in the field, I have come to understand how they work. I’ve learned a lot since starting this job, thanks to this connection." Each day and each construction project is different, so "good organization is important, but above all you have to be flexible and responsive, know how to react quickly to the unexpected. This is what makes the job of a dispatcher so exciting! "
 

Charles has been a staple of Sloan Construction over the last 11 years. From his infectious smile to his playful joking, it isn’t hard to see why everyone likes him. Charles started out as a screed operator on a commercial crew. After two years, he was promoted to the foreman of the commercial paving crew. Charles and his crew have paved everything from Bojangles to major shopping centers and distribution centers. While commercial paving is his forte, Charles and his crew have also assisted on the highway side. Over the last two years, they have been a mainstay on municipal and small DOT paving. Sloan Construction’s core values are: Safety, Integrity, Respect, Teamwork, Entrepreneurship, Transparency, Leadership, Accountability, and Trust. Each of these values are exemplified in Charles Owens. During his Take Time for Safety (TTFS) meetings, Charles ensures that everyone is fully engaged and takes an active role in the meeting.