Unseen Success: Building Safer Futures in the Lifting Industry
Spotlight on Callum Moran
Project Manager and Site Lifting Subject Matter Expert (SME)
Callum Moran’s career journey began straight from school when he stepped into the world of mechanical fitting through an apprenticeship. Today, as Project Manager and lifting safety expert at TechnipFMC, a leading technology provider to the traditional and new energy industries, Callum influences both internal standards and global best practices in lifting safety.
We caught up with Callum following his attendance at the recent LEEA event at the Scottish Parliament, where leaders from across the lifting sector and government met to champion the industry's future in Scotland.
Job Title: Project Manager, TechnipFMC
Additional Role: Site Lifting Subject Matter Expert (SME)
“In my day-to-day role, I oversee project execution from contract award to final delivery,” Callum explains. “But I also serve as the lifting SME chairing the site’s lifting committee.”
His dual responsibilities are part of a company-wide culture that prioritises safety and innovation. These two core values deeply embedded in TechnipFMC’s global operations.
“There are no dedicated lifting positions on site,” Callum adds. “Everyone wears multiple hats. But if you’re passionate about safety, the company will always support you in driving change.”
Where Academic Learning Meets Practical Experience
Callum’s professional foundation was built on the job, starting in the workshop. His career has since evolved thanks to a strong balance of practical knowledge and academic progression.
“I began as an apprentice,” he shares. “Now I’m doing a degree, funded by the Scottish Government, which complements my role and helps drive safer practices.”
The Importance of the Lifting Industry
Callum is passionate about what many overlook: the “unseen success” of lifting safety.
“When you do your job right, nothing happens and that’s the goal. You stop accidents before they start.”
He believes the lifting industry’s impact is huge, especially in risk reduction. From offshore oil to renewables, lifting operations are often the riskiest part of any job but also the most vital.
What are your future ambitions and career goals?
“I want to take what I’ve learned from the workshop and lifting operations into strategic leadership roles,” Callum says. “That’s where I see LEEA helping connecting professionals like me with global standards and a community that’s committed to safer lifting.”
What advice do you have for entering the Lifting Industry?
“Don’t feel like you need to go to university first,” Callum advises. “Start with an apprenticeship, get your hands dirty, and figure out what you enjoy. You can always go back to study later.”
He stresses that the lifting industry offers variety, mobility, and fulfilment.
“If one role doesn’t suit you, there’s something else to try be it in oil, gas, renewables, or engineering. Just get in and start exploring.”
What is your biggest career highlight to date?
One of Callum’s proudest moments was co-developing a training package for engineers to ensure equipment delivered to sites could be lifted safely from the outset.
“What started as a small internal project has gone global,” he says. “We’ve taken it to Krakow, have plans for Dover and India, and we’re working with our team in Brazil. It’s amazing to see something you helped build make a difference worldwide.”
Learn more about the LEEA’s work with the Scottish Parliament: Championing the Future of Lifting Engineering
Explore more at TechnipFMC: https://www.technipfmc.com
