Meet Steve from Facelift Electrical Services, a trusted name in the electrical industry and a proud 17-year member of TrustATrader. Steve’s journey from an eager teenager learning the ropes with his uncle to a qualified, self-employed electrician has been one of dedication, skill, and unwavering commitment to quality.
Over the years, he has not only built a successful business but also embodied the values of TrustATrader, emphasising honesty, customer satisfaction, and continuous growth. Join us as he reflects on his career, the importance of customer trust, and the evolution of the industry.
Can you tell us about your journey as an electrician and how you got started?
“On weekends when I was younger, to earn pocket money, I would sometimes work with my uncle, who was an electrician, in various areas around London. I would have been roughly 14 or 15 years old and still in school. It was exciting visiting different areas, meeting people, and working on various buildings. I continued working with my uncle on odd weekends, learning to install electrical circuits and carry out rewires on domestic homes and occasionally shops.
“At first, the jobs I did were mainly manual tasks, such as moving furniture, lifting carpets and floorboards, and tidying up. Occasionally, I would get the opportunity to chase out walls to bury cables, but at the end of the day, it was my job to pack away the tools and clean up.
“I realised then that I enjoyed electrical work. It made me feel valued and gave me a sense of pride. After leaving school, I studied for two years at college, taking the relevant City & Guilds qualifications, which I passed with distinction and merit. I then applied to various electrical companies for an apprenticeship and was successful in securing a five-year JIB apprenticeship.
“While working with the company, I gained valuable experience in schools, offices, factories, and shops. After completing my apprenticeship, I continued my studies to achieve further qualifications in electrical installations.
“A few years later, I became a qualified electrician and decided to take a leap by becoming self-employed. I applied to become an NICEIC Domestic Installer and, three years later, an NICEIC Approved Contractor—a decision I’ve never looked back on. During this time, I worked on significant projects like Canary Wharf, Tower Bridge, the NEC in Birmingham, and the first Toyota car factory in the UK, among many others.
“To any young person considering becoming an electrician, I can confidently say it’s a rewarding and satisfying career.”
What has kept you with TrustATrader for 17 years, and how has the platform helped your business grow?
“The reason I have stayed with TrustATrader for 17 years is that you feel like part of the family. There’s a lot of honesty when communicating with the team. Gary, the CEO, was incredibly honest and professional when I first spoke to him 17 years ago. TrustATrader became the foundation for Facelift Electrical Services when we started.
“I continue to speak highly about TrustATrader to colleagues, friends, and family—and most importantly, to clients. Communication is vital in any field of work, and TrustATrader has been instrumental in my business’ growth.”
What’s the most rewarding part of your job as an electrician?
“I always say that you’re only as good as your last job, and this is reflected in the numerous 5-star reviews we’ve received from clients and customers during our time with TrustATrader.”
Can you share a memorable project or experience you’ve had with a client?
“Over the years, there have been many memorable projects. Some of the most touching experiences involve helping elderly clients or pensioners who’ve lost electricity. Restoring power to their lights, cookers, or TVs and seeing their smiles is priceless. Often, their children call the next day to thank me for helping their parents. It’s moments like these that make the job truly rewarding.”
How has the industry changed since you started, and how have you adapted?
“The industry has evolved significantly with a greater focus on energy efficiency. As a result, electrical regulations are regularly updated, and staying informed on new amendments is essential. Adapting to these changes has been a continuous part of my career.”
What advice would you give to young electricians just starting out?
“My advice to young electricians is to stay focused, keep up with your studies, and always listen to your tutors and mentors. Their guidance is invaluable.”
How important is customer trust and feedback in your work, and how do you ensure high standards?
“Customer trust and feedback are critical to Facelift Electrical Services. This is evident in the reviews we’ve received on TrustATrader and Google. Customer satisfaction is always our top priority, and we strive to ensure high standards so that our clients are happy and confident enough to recommend us to others.”
What do you think sets you apart from other electricians in the industry?
“Honesty and transparency with our clients set us apart. Even when it’s not what they want to hear, we believe in providing truthful advice about their electrical issues.”
After 17 years with TrustATrader, Steve’s story is a testament to the value of hard work and integrity in the trades. From helping pensioners restore their electricity to working on renowned projects across the UK, Steve’s career has been one of impact and dedication. His advice to young electricians—to stay focused, remain honest, and continually adapt—speaks volumes about his passion for the industry. TrustATrader is proud to have Steve as a longstanding member, and his journey serves as an inspiration to anyone looking to build a career based on trust and excellence. Congratulations, Steve!