In 1991, aged 17, Neil started his career as an apprentice Carpenter & Joiner for Beazer Homes while taking block release to study at Bessecarr Technical College.
Neil's willingness to learn, work ethic, attention to detail and meticulous nature allowed him to succeed as an apprentice, and after completing his training, he earned himself a full-time professional role with Beazer Homes as a Site Carpenter, where he gained an NHBC 'Top 100 Support Award' for his role on the award winning site as 'Site Carpenter'. It was within this position that Neil really began to hone his skills.
Whilst building houses for the next 13 years with a number of the largest house builders, including David Wilson and Persimmon, Neil gained valuable experience, covering groundworks, bricklaying, plastering, plumbing, electrics, painting, decorating and more.
By default, through his work experience, Neil became a well rounded and versatile site carpenter, organically leading his career in Site Management where he gained an NVQ Level 6, equivalent to a degree.
Neil's success in management gave him newfound skills that combined with his knowledge and ability in carpentry and joinery now enabled him to efficiently and methodically manage much larger and more specialist projects.
This has enabled Stonebank Carpentry & Joinery Ltd to offer their clients an extensive range of project options, from designing, manufacturing and installing fitted furniture to full house builds and renovations.
Neil’s wife Emily works behind the scenes in various ways. Her keen eye for detail and love for interior design, coupled with her own career in the Bridal Industry brings the creative vision to their business. Emily manages all administrative aspects, along with web design and social media.
Additionally, to accommodate expansion in early 2021, Neil's son Jake came on board as a mature apprentice adding to the organic growth of the business.