Name - Siobhan Halliday

My name is Siobhan I went to Loughborough University where I studied Geography with a year in Industry. At University my studies were focused on the physical side of Geography looking at Glaciers, Rivers and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). My Placement Year I was a Ranger with Severn Trent and The National Trust, where I spent most of my days outside interacting with visitors and maintaining the sites. My hobbies include playing music and being a beaver and cub leader within Scouting.

How and why you joined Tarmac?

When I started my job search, I was looking for something that included working with GIS and the potential for some outside field work. This is when I came across the job application that Tarmac had put out about a Land and Natural Resources GIS Graduate. I did a little research into Tarmac and their work culture and what they stood for and decided that I would apply as the company sounded very welcoming and a supportive environment to be in. I submitted my application, completed a phone call and then went to an in-person assessment centre where we had an introduction to the company, did some group assessments and then an individual interview. I then started with Tarmac in August of 2023.

What has your experience been like?

My experience has been amazing, the welcome into the company was great and I have been so supported by my team, manager and other member of our Senior Leadership Team as well. Our Graduate scheme is two years long and we meet up every 3 or 4 months to have sessions based on Communication, Finances, Team building and many others. My placements are in 3 or 4 month stints, so far have completed placements with GIS/LIS, North and Scotland Strategic Planning, Restoration and Land Development. I have placements left with Strategic Geology, Asset Management and Tech Services.

What have you enjoyed most about working at Tarmac?

I have really enjoyed how varied the job is, my first month we went to a different site almost every day, I like that one day we could be in the office in a meeting, the next we are doing our normal job, then I could be out at a quarry the next and then with my graduate cohort on another day. The job is so varied and fast paced that you never get bored of what you are doing.

What are you most proud of?

Whilst in this job I have become more confident and grown as a person. I can present to our senior leadership team, talk to our stakeholders, and work at a fast pace. I’m also proud of the relationships that I have made with colleagues and the work I have produced which will help the teams that I have been with in my first rotations.

What do you want to do next?

My next steps are to complete the Graduate scheme and then settle into a final role hopefully within the company. I’m going to take the opportunities that come my way as I may never get another chance.

My advice would be to take the opportunities you are given and try, if you don't try you will never know if you would succeed or fail. If you are looking at Tarmac for a job take the chance as they are so welcoming and supportive, and everyone wants you to be there.