Two men. Nearly a century of timber expertise between them. We caught up with Beesley and Fildes timber specialists Chris Hitchmough and Jim Halpin to uncover the lessons, myths, and must-knows they’ve gathered over almost 50 years each in the trade. Their insights are a brilliant guide for anyone starting a career in timber.
How they found their path in timber
CH: I have been in the Timber and Builders Merchant industry for 48 years; I began a four-year apprenticeship in Timber, completing the institute of Wood Science exams at associate level. I’m passionate about value-adding timber products like Thermawood, and love working with architects and end users though CPDs.
JH: This is my 48th year in timber, with 46 of those spent face-to-face with customers. I specialised in Swedish Softwood for most of my career, and over the last 20 years I’ve focused on British Softwoods, working with some of Scotland’s biggest sawmills.
Getting to grips with timber
JH: Start at the bottom and work your way up. I worked in the yard, then the mill, sales and then moved onto the road. Learning every stage gives you real confidence.
CH: Join a company with a structured training programme and spend time in each department. Understanding how everything fits together helps you find where you thrive.
Beginner friendly timber products
CH: Manufactured sheet materials such as OSB, Chipboard and MDF because they are consistent, regulated and easier to compare across suppliers.
JH: Sheet materials, CLS/Scant, and C16/C24 are great starting points.
The pitfalls to avoid early on
CH: Thinking timber is complicated. Some parts take time, but the basics are very learnable.
JH: Expecting to know everything immediately. Knowledge builds slowly.
How to build customer confidence
CH: Follow the golden rule of asking as many questions as possible. Confidence comes from curiosity.
JH: Take your time and don’t rush, questions are your best tool.
Go-to resources for new starters
JH: There are numerous online learning tools available. Beesley and Fildes are members of the NWTTA, which has online learning, and visiting suppliers can also be helpful.
CH: BMF and TDUK run useful courses, and, some suppliers – such as Arbor or Metsa – offer training modules that are very beneficial.
Skills and attitudes that set you apart
JH: Confidence, knowledge, persistence and a thirst to learn more.
CH: An open and questioning attitude, and the ability to absorb knowledge from people around you.
The one lesson they’d pass on
JH: It’s important to understand exactly where timber is used and to know your customer base.
CH: Put the hard yards in at the beginning, especially from a hand on, practical aspect. The knowledge learnt will last a lifetime and teach you things that you can’t learn from a textbook.
Simple tips for early success
CH: Find a mentor within your organisation and let them guide you.
JH: Start at the bottom and work up, build your knowledge.
Their go-to timbers
CH: Sapele, because of its distinctive striped figure which some call “ribbonstripe” which is because as the tree grows its fibres twist and reverse direction on a regular basis, alternating between left-hand and right-hand spirals.
JH: Western Red Cedar because it’s a beautiful looking timber and it never needs treating as it protects itself.
Chris and Jim’s journeys show that a career in timber isn’t about where you start – it’s about how curious you are, how willing you are to learn, and the people you choose to learn from. Their combined 96 years in the trade prove that this industry rewards those who ask questions, get hands-on, and take pride in understanding how great materials become great projects.
At Beesley & Fildes, that’s exactly the kind of growth we champion. Whether you’re just beginning your career or looking to specialise, you’ll find mentors, structured training, and real opportunities to build knowledge that lasts a lifetime.