Any Suggestions?

[blakeaferd]

I am looking for suggesttions of what i should do at my workplace. Maybe some of you have had the same experience.

I have only climbed for a year, was made foreman at 6 months, and 80% of what i know is self taught.

All of the top climbers have left our company in the last year leaving me to be the next top climber.

I have been in jobs way above my head before and I have gotten through them but I feel this might be a bit different
because i have no one to ask questions to, or no one to turn a job down to.

Question is, should I try being top climber and doing the big dirty jobs, or should i seek more experience?

 

[boreality]

Only you know for sure. See how the boss feels about you. It's slow season so give it a shot. Some got it - many never do get it.

Get a serious pay raise.

 

[simplyarbor]

blakeaferd,
I was in the exact same position as you. I love being able to push myself and be challenged, but know my limits of what is safe and acceptable and I think that is very important. It was a great opportunity for me, however, I am conscious of that fact that I cannot learn everything by myself. I would run with it, as long as you are safe and confident, while taking classes and gaining any knowledge you can from outside sources. Many times, even as the 'top climber', you can learn from other climbers you work with, as most have different backgrounds and experiences.

 

[robinia]

It also greatly depends on whether your employer will be supportive of this change. If the sales are done with the 'top climbers' in mind you my find yourself working a bit slower than what was expected, affecting the bottom line. Then the sales people are frustrated, you get stressed, and accidents happen. Make sure you have some growing time factored into the hairier jobs and work to your own comfort level, not anyone elses.
Why did everyone leave? This could be a consideration as well.
Best of Luck,

 

[1bigtree]

"Question is, should I try being top climber and doing the big dirty jobs, or should i seek more experience?"

It is always wise to seek more experience. How you go about this is up to you. Communication and respect are vital whether you work for yourself or an employer. You can never be certain, though always be safe. “Top climbers” don’t get there alone.