Building connections: lessons from 42 years in engineered timber
Cyndi Chandler, UK and Ireland Managing Director of Simpson Strong-Tie, talks about the moments that have shaped her career so far and the advice she’d give to anyone starting out in the world of engineered timber products
“It all began as just a job I had while attending night school,” Cyndi recalls. “Simpson Strong-Tie was my very first employer, and it didn’t take long for me to realise I’d found where I wanted to build my career. I was fortunate to join the company when it was still relatively small, which gave me the opportunity to learn every aspect of the business from the ground up. Now, nearly 42 years later, I look back with tremendous gratitude.”
What started as “just a first job” quickly became a passion. She was able to grow alongside the company, giving Cyndi a unique perspective and a big-picture insight into the world of engineered timber projects. She has never been afraid to ask questions and is palpably enthusiastic about the value of teamwork. For her, you are only as good as the people around you.
“This industry is built on trust, partnerships, and people,” she states. “Invest in those relationships from day one, and they’ll be the greatest assets of your career. Take the time to get to know them: ask questions, bounce ideas off one another, and don’t be afraid to collaborate.”
Breaking down barriers
With that in mind, if there’s one aspect of the industry she would like to change, it’s the compartmentalisation that can be an obstacle to progress.
“Too often, manufacturers, engineers, designers, contractors, merchants, and installers work in silos when we’re all ultimately working towards the same goal. Because of that, it can take years for new ideas, products, and building methods to gain acceptance.”
She believes this can sometimes lead to wider issues with the way timber is perceived within the construction industry.
“Despite the incredible advances in engineered timber and modern building systems, there are still misconceptions about its strength, durability, and performance when compared to traditional brick and block construction. Those perceptions can slow innovation and prevent the industry from embracing solutions that are safe, sustainable, and highly engineered.”
“When everyone works together – sharing knowledge, challenging old assumptions, and focusing on the facts rather than tradition – we move the industry forward much faster. We build better, we build safer, and we create more opportunities for innovation. I’d love to see the industry become even more collaborative in the years ahead. Those relationships won’t just help you grow professionally – they’ll open doors, broaden your perspective, and make you better at what you do.”
Cyndi Chandler is the UK and Ireland Managing Director of Simpson Strong-Tie, specialists in timber connections.
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