Donald Findlay correcting a tank fixture in the bathroom

Repairing faucets and toilets became part of Donald Findlay’s way of life at a tender age of eight, when he became fascinated with this intriguing profession. After a two year course under the tutelage of an English teacher at the St. Vincent Technical College, Findlay was already on the path to success, despite being absent for most of the second year because of an accident. However, he ventured into the working arena as a certified plumber at the end of the course.

“I wanted to be a fireman at first, because I was fascinated with water or anything to do with it. I wasted time during high school and was more into sports, so I attended the technical school where I settled for plumbing,” he explained.

Findlay, a multi-talented individual, developed a household name in plumbing since his arrival in the Virgin Islands at age 21. Since then he has displayed his expertise on a number of projects in the Territory.

“My first job was with Leonard and Adyes in Virgin Gorda, where I worked on Leverick Bay, Spring Bay and a section of Little Dix Bay. I did over 30 apartments by myself,” he added.

Findlay, who found great pleasure in his profession, said being a plumber today is much easier compared to earlier days when plumbers used coppers and chisel on their jobs.

“We now use modern tools, although it is different in other countries like England and Aruba, who still use led,” he informed.

The avid plumber who balances welding as a profession said he is versed on creating intricate designs from steel.

“I inherited the welding skills from my father, but I didn’t take it serious. I did not show much interest in that area and my father used to curse me as a child because I did not like the job,” he added.

Findlay told Standpoint that the most challenging part of his profession is unclogging a toilet while being unable to determine what’s causing the blockage, which is often caused by a simple toy or a pencil.

Unclogging drains and septic tanks can be a dirty job indeed but being self employed in a plumbing profession as Findlay, it can also be very comfortable.

“I prefer working indoors out of the sun and I enjoy my job. This profession is more like a hobby, once I have enough to survive and I am pleasing my customer, that’s just me,” added a relaxed Findlay.

Being the manager of the now defunct Fino Finish Ltd, Findlay noted that despite his positive attitudes and enthusiasm toward his jobs, some customers are very resentful when it comes to paying for a job.

“Plumbers play a very important role in society that is vital to public health taking into account clean water, heating systems and sanitation.

Because of this, prospects for qualified plumbers are very good. Plumbers with the right skill and training can be useful in other profession as well,” Findlay noted.

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