National Apprenticeship Week Q&A: George Hanley

This week (10^th – 14^th February) is National Apprenticeship week, so we caught up with one of our current resin flooring trainees – George Hanley – to find out what their experiences have been as an apprentice with us so far.

What made you choose resin floor installation as a career path?
I wanted a hands-on job where I could see the results of my work every day. Resin flooring interested me as it’s a skilled trade where no two days are the same. We get to work across the country visiting different sites, using a variety of materials, and learning new techniques.

How did you find out about the John Lord apprenticeship scheme?

I already knew about John Lord and their excellent reputation in the resin flooring industry, so when I saw a post about the apprenticeship scheme on their Facebook page, I decided to apply.

What were your expectations before starting? How do they compare to reality?

I expected it to be hard work, but I didn’t realize just how much skill and precision goes into floor laying. It’s not just spreading resin—it’s about proper prep, mixing, and application. The work is physically demanding, but it’s rewarding when you see the finished result.

What does a typical day look like for you on-site?
Every job is a bit different, depending on the type of floor we’re installing and the size of the job. Typically, we get to site early, set up our tools and if it’s a new job we will prep the surface—grinding, priming, or repairing cracks. Then, we mix and apply the resin which can typically take between 1 and 4 days, depending on the area being covered.

What types of projects have you worked on so far?

Since starting my apprenticeship, I’ve worked in food factories, industrial warehouses, and even a pharmaceutical lab. Each project has different requirements, like slip resistance, chemical resistance, or decorative finishes so I’ve been able to learn new skills on each job I’ve worked on.

Which tools or equipment have you learned to use?
I’ve used power tools like grinders and mixers, fork-lifts and telehandlers. I’ve also learned to work with PPE and ventilation systems, especially for jobs where fumes can be an issue.

What was the most challenging skill to learn in the beginning?
Getting the right technique with a trowel was tricky at first. It looks simple, but spreading the resin evenly without leaving banding marks takes a lot of practice. The time between mixing and laying is also crucial because resin cures quickly once mixed.

How has this apprenticeship changed your view of the flooring industry?
I never realized how much planning and precision goes into flooring. It’s not just about making it look good—it has to meet safety and performance standards too. It’s a skilled trade with a lot of expertise behind it.

What do you think are the most important qualities for a good apprentice?
You need a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn. Being reliable and showing up with the right attitude makes a big difference too.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about an apprenticeship with John Lord?
Go for it but be ready to work hard. Ask questions and take the advice from the experienced floor layers—their expertise is invaluable.

What has been your proudest moment on the job so far?
Finishing my first full floor installation as part of the team. Seeing a smooth, professional finish that I helped create felt great.

Where do you see yourself in ten years within the industry?
I’d like to become a team leader and maybe eventually move into project management, overseeing projects from start to finish.