Connecting a Different Kind of Network: My Move from Fibre to SSEN
Connor, a groundworker and jointing mate at SSEN Distribution, talks about changing career and his experience so far at SSEN Distribution.
When I look back at my career so far, it’s definitely taken a few turns—but every step has led me to where I am now.
I started out in construction after leaving school, doing an apprenticeship in bricklaying and landscaping. I enjoyed the hands‑on work and being outdoors, and after that I spent a couple of years driving for work before joining Openreach in 2018.
I’ve always liked using tools, solving practical problems, and working as part of a team. Openreach gave me a lot of that, and over the years I picked up a huge amount of knowledge, confidence, and skill.
After a few good years, I reached a point where I felt ready for something new. Not because anything was wrong, but because I wanted progression and a fresh challenge.
SSE stood out straight away. It offered everything I was looking for:
- A new challenge that still felt familiar
- A secure, future‑proof career with long‑term opportunities
- Better work–life balance, especially outside core hours
- A supportive culture where you can always get help when you need it
- It felt like the right moment to take the next step, and I’m glad I did.
I expected a learning curve, but the biggest surprise was how quickly things clicked into place.
So many of the skills I’d used at Openreach transferred directly:
- Using tools, machinery and diggers
- Working safely and following procedures
- Handling cable work
- Supporting customers on‑site
The work felt familiar, but the environment felt even more supportive. From day one, people were welcoming and always willing to help.
Working at SSE
The teamwork here is brilliant. You’re trusted to get on with your work, but you’re never left on your own if you need support.
There’s also a clear path to progress, and you can see people around you genuinely motivated to do things well. The job itself is varied too - PSI jobs, vulnerable customer support, no‑supply situations - it keeps every day interesting.
On top of that, the balance between work and home life is definitely better.
Making the transition
Making the change was pretty simple!
The work made sense, people were friendly, and the managers here really take time to get to know you as a person, not just an employee. That made settling in much easier.
A lot of my experience from Openreach turned out to be directly useful, including:
- Operating diggers and plant machinery
- Cable work and practical installation skills
- Using hand tools
- NRSWA, SLG and risk assessment knowledge
- HGV licence
- Strong safety awareness
- Customer‑focused experience
- Having those skills meant the transition felt natural rather than daunting.
I’d definitely recommend SSE as an employer. It’s a great place to work. The training is excellent, actually some of the best I’ve had, and you’re trusted to use the skills you already bring. There’s a strong focus on safety, loads of support, and a much better balance between work and home life.
For anyone looking for progression, a new challenge, or a more secure and supportive environment, SSE is definitely worth considering.
- BT Openreach
