Richard began his working career in 1983 where he joined the British Army, servicing 22 years in the Royal Engineers. After leaving the Armed Forces in 2005, he moved to the utilities sector, continuing his passion for training and helping people to enhance their skills. Over the years he has worked for various organisations including SGN, Skanska, J Murphy`s and M Group Services. He is Head of Training at JSM Group Services Ltd. a utilities infrastructure service provider specialising in delivering integrated solutions across Power, Telecoms, Gas, and Multiutilities.
Richard’s relationship with Energy & Utility Skills started in 2006 when he became an approved trainer for EUSR’s Safety, Health, and Environmental Awareness (SHEA) scheme. Over the years, he has been actively involved in shaping EUSR schemes, participating in multiple working groups to refine training standards for the industry.
Richard said, “One of my career highlights so far was working with Energy & Utility Skills and other key stakeholders to develop the EUSR Supervisory Skills Scheme. A need existed in the market for bespoke training to support individuals in the sector moving into supervisory roles and taking part in this project was a great opportunity for me.”
Launched in April 2023, the Supervisory Skills Scheme stands out for its approach, integrating classroom instruction with on-the-job training and utilising a portfolio of evidence to assess participants. As a result, participants are better prepared for the responsibilities of supervisory roles.
Richard is also an advocate of EUSR’s SHEA Mapped, which has enriched JSM Group’s internal health and safety training by incorporating all aspects of the SHEA course. This alignment has brought the company’s training to a standard recognised throughout the energy and utilities industry and avoids individuals having to do additional training.
He also played a key role in JSM Group becoming one of the first companies to become an approved centre for the EUIAS Street Works Qualification.
“This milestone achievement underscores JSM Group’s dedication to excellence in training and our commitment to setting the highest standards in the sector,” added Richard.
Having seen the benefits of Energy & Utility Skills membership during his time at M Group Services, Richard was instrumental in encouraging JSM Group to become a member as well. This move further reinforced the company’s alignment with industry-leading standards and practices, ensuring that JSM continues to offer top-tier training and development for its workforce.
Throughout his career, Richard has witnessed significant shifts in the utilities sector, particularly in the growing emphasis on investing in people and safety. Companies have become more proactive in ensuring their teams are properly trained and equipped to meet the demands of a highly regulated industry. This evolution has been critical in shaping a safer, more skilled workforce.
Richard Nelson’s career is a testament to his unwavering commitment to improving training and leadership within the utilities sector. Through his work with EUSR, his contributions to the Supervisory Skills Scheme, and his advocacy for industry-wide standards, he continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of utilities training.
As Richard continues his work at JSM Group, we look forward to ongoing collaboration. His influence on training and industry standards will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact.