Some people know what job they want to do from a very early age. Some study for years in order to become well paid, skilled and respected professionals. Others fall into careers, right place right time. I came into my line of work through passion.
Growing up on the edges of Dartmoor National Park in Devon, England, I was always attracted to the Granite outcrops or Tors, as there locally called. These proud, steep sided summits, provided my inspiration for being off the ground, at height, so to speak. It was here I decided I wanted to work in the outdoors and to make money from my passion for climbing. The usual route, of an outdoor pursuits instructor immediately came to mind and this is exactly what I did, loving every minute of it. I took on the spirit of living with little, being rewarded through doing what I loved and not the salary – a fun and care free existence.
A little later I met my future wife, and not long after that came the children, all three of them!! This made the requirements of my frugal lifestyle a little, shall we say, stretched. Of course we got by but the financial aspects of a career in “outdoor pursuits” would need to change. It was my wife, Jacqui, who pointed out an advert in a climbing magazine. It stated in bold print “THIS ABSEILER IS EARNING 300 POUNDS A DAY!!” This was my first enquiry into the Industrial Rope Access industry.
Since those early days I have been in every position and every kind of job hanging in some lofty space from the double rope system which forms the basis of the “Safe System of Work” prescribed by the Industrial Rope Access Trade Association or “IRATA”. This is the international governing body for Rope Access and maintains the incredibly high safety standards needed to operate under their jurisdiction, whilst undertaking rope access activities.
This is a career that can really take you places both physically and financially. The draw of the Oil and Gas Industry has been strong for many, with Rope Access technicians earning salaries considerably higher than R 1 000 000 per annum. The wind turbine industry is starting to flourish with Rope Access techs abseiling down to blades for inspection, maintenance and repair work. What better way to spend a day, than hanging in space above the ocean or grassy fields, surrounded by these enigmatic structures?
Personally, I have worked in both of these industries and also travelled with my wife and family and earnt as I’ve gone. Using my international IRATA qualification I’ve worked all over the Emirates, along the West coast of Africa, throughout the UK, across Europe and of course widely through South Africa. On reaching the Level 3 Supervisory role poised at the top of the ladder, or rope should I say, you are solely responsible for the safety of everyone on sight whilst working in suspension – an ongoing, hands on task, which takes real management and clear communication skills. There is no office based supervision here!!
Recently, I settled with my family in Plettenberg Bay where I’ve changed my focus to the training of these courses and qualifying people to the IRATA International standard, the same road I have taken. The “Industry Training Centre” Rope Access training venue has been converted from an old timber mill, 10 metres high with a floor space of 70 metres long by 30 metres wide. Its huge laminate timber beams arc gracefully across the roof. The structure really is impressive. Ropes are rigged from these beams for the training of rope manoeuvres, rope rescues and complex three dimensional lifting exercises for the Level 3 candidates to undertake. Courses are residential with students staying on the beautiful Ingwe Game farm lodge and hearty meals are provided, all included with the course package.
I’ve been blessed throughout my career to follow my passion, travel to the most amazing places and earn good salaries on my IRATA Rope Access qualifications. If you are fit and have a sense of adventure and a head for heights I would thoroughly recommend following a passion in life and delving into to this great career choice. The “Industry Training Centre” internationally accredited rope access courses are a great option to start and continue your path in this growing industry and to gaining a sustainable, joyful and varied career with the real option for travel and the ability to earn great salaries in Rand, Dollars, Pounds, Dirhams and many other currencies. Personally I have never looked back.
For more information visit the Industry training Centre.
Managing Director
Andy Rodmell
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