A day in the life of Nick Gingell

Nick Gingell – 2 Meter Planer Foreman

With more than 25 years of experience in the industry, with 12 of those spent at Jet Plant Hire, Nick Gingell has seen first-hand how the sector has evolved. As a Foreman, no two days are ever the same but one thing remains consistent: his commitment to safety, quality and teamwork within the supportive environment at Jet.

“The industry has changed a lot since I first started,” Nick explains. “But it’s for the better, especially when it comes to health and safety and thorough checks.”

Over the years, the planing and plant hire industry has become far more regulated and that’s a really good thing. Processes are now stricter, with clear checklists and accountability built into every stage of a project. Where once things may have been less formal, companies are now required to operate fully by the book to ensure the safety and welfare of everyone on site.

“Companies are held far more accountable now than they were 20 years ago,” Nick says. “That’s important.”

Nick’s role has naturally evolved alongside these industry changes. With increased responsibility placed on him by Jet, his day now begins long before the first machine starts up.

Before every single project, Nick carries out a dynamic risk assessment something that wasn’t always required of Foremen in the past. This process allows him to identify potential risks or issues before the team even steps on site.

“If anything comes up, it’s reported straight away to a superior or site contact who can deal with it appropriately,” he explains. “It’s all about preventing issues before they happen.”

The machinery itself has also progressed significantly. Modern equipment is far more technical and advanced than it used to be, supporting safer and more efficient operations across sites. While the core of the job remains familiar, the tools and systems around it continue to improve.

Though no two projects are ever identical, good preparation remains essential. Before beginning any new job, Nick makes a point of meeting with site supervisors in advance. These early consultations allow them to explore the upcoming work in detail before the wider team arrives on site. As a result, by the time the crew and machinery are in place, everything is already mapped out and ready to begin. This level of forward thinking and planning is especially crucial given that Nick is rarely based at the same site more than once.

“Every job is clearly different,” Nick says, “but the approach stays the same.”

Each project, regardless of size, is treated equally. The same processes are followed every time, with the shared goal of delivering work to the highest possible standard a value Nick believes is reflected across Jet as a whole.

For Nick, Jet isn’t just a workplace it’s a company he connects with on a personal level.

“My job is important to me,” he says. “And it really helps that Jet is supportive and flexible with my shifts. My wife works in the NHS, and sometimes our shifts can coincide. Jet is always helpful in making sure there’s no crossover.”

That flexibility and understanding has made a real difference, reinforcing why Nick has stayed with the business for more than a decade.

“As a whole, Jet looks after its team members,” he adds. “They’re a good company to work for that’s a big reason why I’ve been here 12 years.”

There is a culture of open communication in which Nick highlights the strong support he receives from management at every level, even to the most senior members of staff.

“My line manager is so flexible and supportive, creating a good environment where people actually want to work at Jet,” he explains. “From my immediate manager right up to senior management including Sean Witheford, our now Chairman, they’ve all helped me when I’ve needed it.”

“There are no closed doors here,” Nick says. “Open lines of communication are key to creating a supportive environment. You can ask questions at any level, and that makes a huge difference.”

Overall, Nick is a clear example of how Jet Plant Hire supports its people, both on site and beyond, creating an environment where employees can thrive.