Tag: Career

  • Joining The 5% Club

    Joining The 5% Club

    Investing in Apprenticeships, Skills and Social Value

    We are proud to have joined The 5% Club, a nationwide movement of employers committed to developing skills, creating opportunity and strengthening the UK workforce through structured training and early career development.

    For a company built around people, safety and long-term partnerships, this step feels like a natural fit. Our growth has always been about more than expanding depots and fleets, it’s about investing in people and building a stronger future for the industry.

    What The 5% Club Means

    The 5% Club brings together organisations that believe in creating real pathways into skilled careers. Members commit to developing talent through apprenticeships, graduate programmes and other “earn and learn” opportunities that allow people to build experience while gaining qualifications.

    It’s about giving people a way in, supporting their development and helping them build a career rather than simply filling a role.

    Already Going Beyond the Benchmark

    While members aspire to have at least 5% of their workforce in structured training roles, we are proud to already exceed that benchmark.

    Around 10%of our workforce are currently apprentices.

    That isn’t a statistic we chased it’s a reflection of how we believe a business should grow: by bringing people in, supporting them and helping them develop lasting careers.

    Apprenticeships Matter in Traffic Management

    Traffic management plays a vital role in keeping infrastructure projects moving safely and efficiently. Developing new talent ensures the industry maintains high standards and continues to evolve.

    For those joining Paragon, apprenticeships offer a practical, supported introduction to the industry. People learn on real sites, gain recognised qualifications and receive mentoring from experienced professionals who understand the realities of the job. More importantly, they gain confidence, purpose and a clear pathway forward.

    Social Value Through Opportunity

    Social value is often talked about in broad terms, but for us it starts with creating opportunities.

    Providing structured entry points into skilled work supports local communities, improves social mobility and helps address the industry’s skills gap. It also strengthens the teams delivering projects every day.

    When people are given the chance to learn, progress and build a career, the benefits ripple far beyond the workplace.

    Building the Future Workforce

    Demand for safe, compliant and efficient traffic management continues to grow across the UK. Meeting that demand requires more than equipment and systems, it requires skilled, motivated people.

    By investing in apprenticeships and early career pathways, we are helping ensure the industry remains strong, professional and future ready.

    A People-Led Approach to Growth

    Joining The 5% Club reinforces what has always been central to Paragon: growth driven by people.

    We believe businesses perform better when they invest in their teams, create opportunities and support progression at every stage. This commitment helps us deliver reliable service for clients while building a culture where people feel supported, valued and able to thrive.

    Whether you’re looking for a dependable traffic management partner or exploring a future in the industry, Paragon Traffic Management is committed to delivering safe, professional and people-focused solutions.

  • From Service to Civvy Life

    From Service to Civvy Life

    For many people leaving the Armed Forces, stepping into civilian life can feel uncertain. The structure, camaraderie and purpose that once shaped daily life can suddenly feel distant. At Paragon Traffic Management, we meet individuals at that crossroads every year and we’ve seen first hand how the right support and opportunity can help them drastically.

    Gary Hodgkiss is one of those stories.

    His journey is one of resilience, humour, and determination, it shows why veterans bring immense value to the workplace.

    A Challenging Start That Built Inner Strength

    Gary’s early years weren’t straightforward. Family change, emotional upheaval and a difficult relationship with school left him feeling disconnected from the world around him. School just wasn’t a place he felt he belonged, and like many young people searching for direction, he drifted while trying to find purpose.

    A turning point came when he moved in with his Nan at 14. With his older brother providing guidance and stability, Gary began to find direction and a sense of belonging.

    Finding Purpose in the Army

    Joining the Army was something Gary had always wanted to do. With both grandfathers having served, military life felt like a natural path and quickly became the place where everything clicked.

    The Army gave Gary discipline, structure and responsibility. It gave him the camaraderie and trust he had long searched for. It taught him resilience and empathy through demanding training and peacekeeping deployments in Bosnia and Kosovo.

    Operating in extreme environments and high-pressure situations taught him adaptability and problem solving skills that still shape his life today.

    These are the qualities that veterans bring into civilian roles, calm thinking, teamwork, leadership and the ability to perform under pressure.

    Transitioning to Civilian Life

    After leaving the Army, Gary explored different roles, including bus driving and running a successful plastering business. Yet he found himself missing the teamwork, structure and pace of military life.

    That changed when a childhood friend introduced him to traffic management.

    The role immediately resonated. It offered teamwork, responsibility, structure and purpose, all the elements that had driven him into the military in the firsrt place.

    Later, he joined Paragon Traffic Management.

    From day one, he settled right in.

    Building a Life With Purpose

    Today, Gary brings the same professionalism, humour and reliability to his work that defined his Army service.

    Away from work, he is a devoted father of four and enjoys an active life with his partner Danielle, gym sessions, long walks in any weather and time spent with family.

    His story is a powerful reminder of where you begin does not define where you can go!

    Veterans can Thrive in Traffic Management

    Traffic management offers a natural transition for many service leavers.

    Veterans often excel because they bring:

    • reliability and strong work ethic
    • leadership and teamwork
    • resilience and adaptability
    • clear communication and quick thinking

    We recognise these strengths and provide support to help veterans settle into civilian careers.

    This includes mentoring, wellbeing support, access to professional guidance and a workplace culture built on respect and camaraderie.

    Supporting Veterans Beyond Recruitment

    Our commitment to the Armed Forces community goes beyond hiring. We attend Armed Forces career events, support reservists and cadets, and work with organisations helping service leavers transition into civilian employment.

    We believe providing opportunity, stability and support is not just good practice.

    Your Next Chapter Could Start Here

    If you’re leaving the Armed Forces or adjusting to civilian life and wondering what comes next, you are not alone.

    There are companies ready to support you, value your experience and help you build a future.

    Gary’s journey shows what is possible when the right person finds the right place.

    If you’re ready to take the first step, we’re ready to talk.

    📩 Contact Shirley: shirley.y@paragontm.co.uk


    Safety By Choice, Not By Chance

  • Jobs in Traffic Management

    Jobs in Traffic Management

    An Introduction to Traffic Management Careers

    Welcome to a World of Opportunities, as we step into the new year, it’s the perfect time to consider a fresh start in your professional life. Traffic management offers a unique and rewarding career path, especially for those looking to make a change from their current industry or looking to break out of the typical “9 to 5” gig. This dynamic field is about more than just managing roadways; it’s about ensuring safety, solving logistical challenges, and making a tangible impact on daily life.

    Why Consider a Career in Traffic Management?


    The Unsung Heroes of Our Roads. Traffic management is an essential part of maintaining the flow and safety of our roads. As a TM (Traffic Management) professional, you will play a pivotal role in the executing of strategies to minimise congestion and ensure safe passage for all road users and of course, keep those working safe. This industry is perfect for those who enjoy driving around the country, problem-solving, working outdoors, and contributing to public safety.

    Entering the Field: No Previous Experience Required


    A Career Accessible to All. One of the great things about Paragon Traffic Management is that we often don’t require previous experience in the field. We offer comprehensive training programs that equip you with all the skills you need to succeed. Whether you have a background in construction, customer service, or even if you’re just starting your career journey, traffic management can be a perfect fit, as long as you have the right mindset.

    The Rewards of a Career in TM


    Making a Difference Every Day. A career in TM isn’t just a job; it’s a chance to make a daily difference. Team members often report high job satisfaction due to the variety of work, the opportunity to work in different locations, and the sense of accomplishment that comes from keeping the public safe and traffic flowing smoothly, whilst having a bit of banter with the guys on-site.

    How to Get Started


    Your Pathway to a New Career. Getting started in traffic management is straightforward. Look for companies that value training and development, offer a supportive work environment, and are committed to safety and innovation. Paragon TM is always on the lookout for motivated individuals eager to join the traffic management industry.

    Conclusion


    Join Us on the Road to Success! Are you ready to embark on a new career journey this new year? Traffic management offers a world of opportunities to grow, learn, and make a real-world impact. Visit our careers page to explore current openings and learn more about starting your journey in this exciting and rewarding field. Our application process only takes ten minutes to complete. So, what are you waiting for? Get started now, click the link below.

    Explore Traffic Management Jobs at Paragon Traffic Management Here

    Start your traffic management job today!