Just A Minute with Mike Stark

Mike Stark
Mike Stark, the UK&I technical director at OCS and president of electrical trade association SELECT, takes part in SCN’s Just A Minute feature.
How did you get started in the industry?
As a 16-year-old, I was introduced to the trade by my late dad, Tom Stark.
Biggest professional achievement:
Seeing the dedication and commitment you apply become fruitful when apprentices pass their FICA to become qualified electricians.
Best advice you received:
“Always look on the bright side of life”.
What is the most important part of the industry?
The re-generation of growth with apprentices becoming qualified electricians and then approved electricians.
What do you like most about your job?
The daily challenges. Away from OCS, this year is SELECT’s 125th anniversary so there are lot of events planned to mark the occasion which I am looking forward to.
And the least?
The daily challenges. I appreciate this is the same as most, but some can be really challenging and take up a lot of your time and resources.
What would you most like to change in housing/construction?
The existing Electrical infrastructure which is about 75 years old and, in some instances, shot to bits.
Which newsletters/ bulletins do you receive?
Scottish Construction News/SELECT updates.
How would you change Scottish Construction Now?
Nothing springs to mind, but there is always room for improvement no matter how small.
Do you read a daily newspaper?
No
Which social media sites do you use and which do you find the most useful?
LinkedIn and sometimes X.
Hobbies and interests:
Golf
Favourite holiday destination:
Lanzarote