Phillip Bennett - a career in Pavement Surfacing

Phillip, aged 19, joined Downer EDI Works in Dunedin as an apprentice when he left school.  He is now a bitumen sprayer operator, and is working towards a National Certificate in Pavement Surfacing (Bulk Bitumen Equipment) – Level 4.

Phillip says, “A bitumen sprayer operator applies liquid bitumen to the roads, ready for the chipseal to go down on top.  It’s quite technical and accuracy is important.  There are different factors to take into account like the gradient of the road, and whether the road is straight or has lots of corners. 

“The National Certificate in Pavement Surfacing has been really useful.  The learning notes provided by InfraTrain give me the theory, and I put it all into practice in my day to day work through on-job training. 

“Most of my training is done by the guys I work with.  They have loads of experience, and they’re happy to share their knowledge with me.  My Manager Ross Peterson is very supportive and has encouraged me to study and gain a qualification.

“The National Certificate covers important areas like health and safety and First Aid, temporary traffic management, handling, and heating, blending and application of bitumen.  It also covers driving skills - so far I’ve gained my Class 1, 2 and 4 Driver Licences, and endorsements for W (wheels), T (tracks), R (rollers) and D (dangerous goods).  I’m going for my Class 3 and 5 Licenses soon. 

“I’d definitely recommend pavement surfacing as a career.  If anyone is thinking of getting into it, I’d say ‘go for it.’  I’ll definitely be staying in the bitumen side of things.  I’d like to drive the sprayer truck for a few more years, then maybe do a supervision qualification and become a foreman.”

Ask for training - you'll be better off!
So, if you’re ready to start an exciting and challenging career contact InfraTrain.   Your nearest  regional manager will help you work out which training option best suits your skills, needs and future career path.

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