Malcolm Thomson, Senior Contracts Manager at CHAP Group (Aberdeen) and Rachel O’Donnell, HR Manager at W M Donald have joined the Board of Directors of Grampian Construction Training Ltd (GCT).
GCT is a not-for-profit organisation which assists its member companies directly engaged in the construction industry, to obtain cost-effective and professional training.
Malcolm Thomson has worked within the construction industry for twenty years starting out as an Architectural Technician before transitioning into project management in 2014. Malcolm has worked at CHAP Group for almost two years now in the above role. Career highlights for Malcolm include the delivery of the Aberdeen University Science Teaching Hub.
Malcom commented, "Throughout my time in the industry, I have been heavily involved with the Considerate Constructors Scheme as well as engagement with local schools to ensure we deliver a better understanding of the construction industry, helping increase interest in construction careers. I like to get involved with the development of apprentices passing on my enthusiasm and passion for proper training and safety."
Malcolm Thomson and Rachel O’Donnell
Rachel O’Donnell has held senior Human Resource management positions for almost twenty years. A member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, in June 2023 Rachel was named HR Leader of the Year for Scotland in the prestigious cHeRries Awards.
Rachel commented, "Already in my time with W M Donald, I have worked closely with schools and local colleges to develop an effective construction apprenticeship. The training provided by GCT covers site skills, site supervision and management, and health and safety and complements the in-house training already provided by members."
Commenting on their appointments, "Growing interest in joining and retaining people within the construction industry is consistently one of the biggest challenges we face. Providing high-quality training for everyone will help not only tackle this challenge of introducing new people to the workforce but also make it a safer environment for everyone involved.
"It is an absolute privilege to join the GCT Board of Directors and we look forward to working for the members, helping ensure the most up-to-date training is achieved."