Haydn Steele Retires from the CPA

After many years of sterling service, Haydn Steele, CPA’s Safety and Training Manager is retiring today on the grounds of health. For many CPA (Construction Plant-hire Association) Members and for those from the plant and construction industry, Haydn has been a high profile character and a key contact at the CPA during the 16 years he has worked for the organisation. Haydn came to the CPA from the Royal Air Force, bringing with him a strong background in training and health and safety.

Haydn has undoubtedly made a significant contribution to training and safety for CPA Members and the industry over the years and amongst his many day-to-day activities, has helped many with advice on training and safety issues, and worked closely with and was the main link between CPA and the CITB, not afraid to challenge them on numerous occasions to ensure that the needs of CPA Members and the plant sector in general were met.

Amongst the many numerous functions he fulfilled, he chaired the CITB Health & Safety Test Questions Sub-committee, represented CPA’s interest on the CPCS Management Committee, has been instrumental in managing and administering the CPA Special Interest Groups, played a significant part in developing – in partnership with other European countries – the European Crane Operator’s Licence (soon to come to fruition), and administered the Training of Plant in Construction (TOPIC) group which has grown in strength over the years including encompassing the recent introductions of the Trailblazer apprenticeships.

Members who have visited the CPA stand at the many trade shows over the years such as SED, Plantworx, Vertikal Days and the Executive Hire Show may not be aware that Haydn was the driving force behind the organisation of the CPA stands, as well as other activities such as the CPA Golf Day but perhaps Haydn’s greatest profile was the setting up and organising the very successful ‘Stars of the Future’ apprenticeship awards for which his hosting expertise on stage will always be memorable.

Space limits all Haydn’s achievements over the years but he will undoubtedly be missed by his CPA colleagues, Members and the numerous people from the industry who’ve interacted with him over many years.

In summary, Colin Wood, Chief Executive of the CPA said: “We’re sad to lose Haydn but understand the reasons for his departure, he’s certainly left his legacy and a hard act to follow and his character and achievements will be noted for many years to come. We wish him all the best in the future.”

Kevin Minton, Director of the CPA said: “We have all enjoyed working with Haydn, and we wish him a happy, healthy and fulfilling retirement.”

The final words come from Haydn: “The time has come for me to retire from the CPA after 16 years on 22nd June 2017 due to health issues from which I can now put my feet up and relax….some would say I’ve been relaxed enough during the past 16 years!

“It’s been a privilege and pleasure to have worked with and alongside Members and industry during my time at the CPA. Much has changed during this time, mainly for the good and I hope my time spent with the CPA has been appreciated, having done the best for the Members and industry in general. I will miss the interaction with everyone and I wish you all a very prosperous and healthy future,” he continued.