ROUNDTABLE | NEXT GENERATION
The workforce of today want quick growth, a defined career path with a clear direction and clear steps to reach the next level.
but the need to constantly promote and move people is a challenge, so we need to back fill as we move people around. It is a circular challenge to fill the bench. MN: Some younger professionals may not initially see our industry as modern or flexible, even though it’s evolving fast. The work can be demanding at times, and if career steps aren’t clearly visible, people may feel unsure about their future. That’s why transparent development paths, regular development discussions and learning and development opportunities are so important. JD: One of the biggest challenges in retaining young professionals is helping them see the long-term career potential. Developing real expertise takes time. In a world where people often expect quick results, that learning curve can sometimes be discouraging. Organisations that succeed in retaining talent tend to make career progression more visible and invest consistently in high-quality training and development. They create clear advancement paths and continue investing in their people to retain them longer. CL: One of the biggest challenges is career visibility. Young professionals want to know how their current role connects to growth opportunities. Mentorship and professional development are also key, as early-career employees value guidance and opportunities to
expand their skills. Another major factor is work- life balance. Flexibility and a supportive culture matter more than ever.
What advice would you give your 25-year-old self entering this industry today? KB: I’ve done a lot in my career. I started out in an entry-level position not knowing the business at all. I had an administrative position for two years, then I was a service technician, then I had roles in management, then sales, then branch management. I became a regional manager and now I am director of the entire crane service organisation. So, I have run the whole gamut. My suggestion would be to just soak it all in and not corner myself in any one aspect of the business. There are not many limitations on what you can do. The more you know, the more control you have over your own destiny. My years as a technician before taking on a sales role were invaluable. They gave me an advantage over my competition the majority of the time. MN: Don’t worry about asking for support. Reaching out to colleagues to ask for help provides you with a wonderful opportunity to learn beyond expectations and will establish life- long relationships. CL: There are a few things I’d tell myself. First, build relationships across the industry. Second, ask questions constantly. This industry is always evolving, so staying curious is the best way to
keep learning and stay ahead. Finally, develop both technical and soft skills. Technical expertise is important, but communication, collaboration and problem-solving are what make you an effective leader. LH: It’s a marathon not a sprint. Enjoy where you are and be patient. There is much to glean from where you are at but if you try to rush advancement you will miss it.
What setbacks taught you the most – and how did you turn them into growth opportunities? KB: My biggest setback was I got really frustrated with leadership in an organisation I worked for, so I left the industry rather than looking for another option. I left for four years, and that forced me to take a couple of steps backwards. I have no regrets, but if I had stayed in industry I could have moved further along sooner. Everybody’s situation is different, so you have to weigh it out, but I didn’t want to be on the road and travelling while my kids were really young. Sometimes what seems like it is not the best for your career could be the best move for your family. You have to think about your priorities. MN: It may sound cliché, but learning from mistakes is the most powerful. You need to have an open and curious mindset and be willing to reflect. It is very helpful to have colleagues around you whom you can ask for honest feedback.
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