Celebrating 20 Years of Service!

This June, we are proud to celebrate an incredible milestone as Paul Treliving marks 20 years with SDG Access.

From beginning his career in the Royal Air Force, through to becoming an integral part of the SDG Access team, Paul has seen the company evolve significantly during his two decades with us. Joining originally as an engineer, Paul spent many years supporting clients in the field before transitioning into his current role as Store Coordinator, ensuring our engineers have the equipment, products, and support they need to keep delivering for clients every day.

Known for his experience, sense of humour, and strong relationships with colleagues across the business, Paul has played an important role in helping shape the company throughout its growth.

We sat down with Paul to reflect on his career, memorable moments, and what has kept him part of the SDG Access family for 20 years.

What were you doing before joining SDG Access, and how did your time in the Royal Air Force shape you?

The Royal Air Force took me from a naïve 16-year-old schoolboy to a 40-year-old man with experience of life and laughter. I then transitioned to “civvy street” with a bang, becoming a manager at a pine furniture manufacturer.

What originally attracted you to join SDG Access 20 years ago?

I was acquainted with Jon and Linda (founder directors) through social connections – we were friends. They had an opening for me to learn to become an engineer and I took that opportunity.

When you first joined as an engineer, what do you remember most about those early days?

I initially joined in an office-based role but quickly moved into engineering. I was primarily a service engineer with overall knowledge of doors. I also worked as a second engineer on many repairs and installations. There were fewer engineers in the early 2000s, so callouts were fierce!

How has SDG Access changed since you first started?

Not only has the company grown considerably but it has also adapted to today’s working regulations, so our working practices have evolved accordingly, for the better, I should add.

Your joined as an engineer, how did your role evolve into becoming Store Coordinator?

It got to the point I realised that doing eight-hour days and then going out on callouts was becoming too much at my age. An opportunity arose to coordinate our newly developed store facility at SDG.

What has been your proudest moment during your 20 years here?

To be honest, I have a few proud moments (easily pleased!).

Seeing the company grow to the heights it is now, and hoping I have played a part in that achievement.

Seeing SDG survive and continue to grow during the Covid years; trying times for everyone!

Also reaching 10 years of service… and now proudly reaching 20 years!

What has kept you at SDG Access for two decades?

The company has always felt like a family-run business. Although we have grown considerably, that feeling is still very much evident in how the business operates.

We are always treated with respect, and the company’s social gatherings have to be seen to be believed!

What do you enjoy most with working with the engineers and wider team?

I consider my relationship with all my colleagues to be really friendly. We all have good banter during the working day, and I do get to meet up with some of them outside of work too.

What advice would you give to someone joining SDG today?

Join us – we pride ourselves on our professional service and we have lots of different perks to offer.

After 20 years at SDG, what’s one thing your colleagues might be surprised to learn about you?

My passion for Star Wars (though it’s not much of a secret!) and I can get angry at times!!!