Stephen Carden-Smith is a 47 year old married father of three who lives in Marton, Middlesbrough and previously worked for the construction giant Carillion as a Services Manager for 10 years.
After being made redundant in May 2012, he was determined to get back into work and build on his existing skills. Stephen decided to start his own business delivering a range of health and safety courses to support businesses and the general public throughout the North East.
To make sure he had the necessary qualifications to back up his relaxed and friendly training style, Stephen applied for and passed a number of courses, including the highly desired in the industry NEBOSH Certificate (National Examination Board of Occupational Safety and Health). Since passing his exam, he has gone further and is now studying part-time for the NEBOSH Diploma at Middlesbrough College.
Stephen recognised that he did not have the base knowledge required for starting his business having never worked for himself before; he sought the professional advice and training offered by Five Lamps’ Enterprise Team based in Thornaby.
Stephen’s main concerns were underpinning his knowledge of developing a strong business plan, marketing techniques and understanding legislation for new enterprises. By participating in the free workshops delivered by Five Lamps and attending one to one sessions with John Lawrenson Five Lamps’ Enterprise Coach and Simon Coe, Five Lamps’ Business Advisor, Stephen’s confidence began to grow and he realised that being self-employed could become a reality.
Stephen developed his knowledge of the competition in the training sector, created a plan on how to market the business both via traditional and online methods and decided on a price structure and service that gave potential customers the best value for money within a difficult competitive market place. Stephen also began his business networks and decided on 22 October 2012, to take the final steps towards self-employment and registered for trading as ‘APCB Safety Training’ named after his underpinning mission to improve employee Attitudes, Perceptions, Competencies and Behaviours in the workplace.
Stephen said:
“I am really looking forward to delivering quality recognised training qualifications within the local and wider communities. I’m deeply grateful to all the staff at Five Lamps, in particular my coaches John and Simon. I’m now more positive and confident and hope to be a successful entrepreneur!”
He excitedly mentioned that he will deliver his training at the University of Teesside Business Centre, where he has the use of the latest technology and spacious, modern training rooms to welcome his business clients. Stephen is offering both Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) and Instituted of Occupational Health (IOSH) courses.
If you or your company require help with Safety Training in the workplace, you can contact Stephen at APCB Safety Training on (01642) 738952, info@apcbsafetytraining.co.uk or visit www.apcbsafetytraining.co.uk.