The Army has left a lasting impression on Hardstaff’s Jim Cotter and Bob Way
Leading safety barrier manufacturer and supplier, Hardstaff Barriers, has honoured two dedicated team members and former servicemen, whose lives and work ethics were shaped by their time in the Army.
The tribute coincided with national Armed Forces Day, which took place on Saturday, which recognised the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community: from currently serving troops to service families, veterans and cadets.
Working at Hardstaff Barriers requires quick-thinking, disciplined people, who work hard around the clock, ensuring that safety barriers are installed in the right places, at the right times.
As the trusted contractor for the UK Government’s National Barrier Asset (NBA) framework, Hardstaff Barriers is responsible for installing Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) barriers in a range of high-profile locations – from reality tv show sets and major sports grounds to parliamentary events.
The team is also regularly called to carry out urgent barrier repairs following road crashes, often during the night.
The nature of the work, which often requires working away and spending time apart from loved ones, requires driven individuals with a commitment to their work.
The Army has left a lasting impression on Project Manager, Jim Cotter, and Operations Supervisor, Bob Way, and has given them the skills they need to succeed in their Hardstaff careers.
Let’s meet them…
Name: Jim Cotter
Title: Project Manager for Hardstaff Secure
Joined Hardstaff Barriers: 2020
Age: 48
Role in Army: Warrant Officer, Royal Engineers
Most important Army lessons learned: “Discipline, timekeeping, integrity and honesty, and the will to get things done.”
Army skills transferred to Hardstaff: “All of the above have a key part in my day-to-day working life, whatever job I am doing.
“A full 24-year service in the Army has provided me with experience and knowledge that I hope to continue to bring to Hardstaff Barriers; to improve the service that we offer to our clients, and to provide a more efficient, safe, and trained workforce.”
Why Armed Forces Day is important: “It recognises what the military does, and celebrates its achievements. Also, it’s a great way to encourage young people to have a look at a possible career in the Armed Forces.”
Name: Bob Way
Title: Operations Supervisor
Joined Hardstaff Barriers: 1997
Age: 56
Role in Army: Company Signaller, 1st Battalion Queen’s Regiment
Most important Army lessons learned: “Discipline, respect and teamwork.”
Army skills transferred to Hardstaff: “Problem-solving under pressure on a daily basis.”
Why Armed Forces Day is important: “It gives the public an insight into what members of the forces actually do and the difference they make.”
Kathryn Cooper, Service Manager at Hardstaff Barriers, said: “Jim and Bob are hard-working, trusted members of the Hardstaff workforce, and it is evident that their approach to work has been shaped by their former roles in the Armed Forces.
“We are grateful for their dedication and commitment to their work at Hardstaff Barriers, today, on Armed Forces Day, and every day.”
