Sharing entrepreneurship lessons with Sullivan Upper students

Our CEO, Gareth Boyd, has shared lessons from his entrepreneurial journey with GCSE Business Studies students at Sullivan Upper School in Holywood, County Down, where he offered insights into what is required to develop a business and recognise opportunities to solve real-world problems.

Drawing on his experience of developing both Watertight and Resilico, Gareth described a business journey that has spanned manufacturing, to service delivery and now technology and data. His presentation focused on the importance of developing a clear strategy, earning trust, taking risks, learning from failure and also recognising when a business needs to change direction.

The session also introduced students to the property flood resilience industry and the work of both Watertight and Resilico in helping households and communities prepare for flooding.

The visit also reflects the wider work we are doing with schools across the country, combining the delivery of PFR measures with opportunities for young people to learn about the industry. Through our partnership with Constructing Change, we have committed to supporting Learning in Action days, which will introduce young people to PFR and careers in construction and flood resilience.

Talking about the visit, Gareth said: “It was rewarding to share what I have learned about entrepreneurship and to introduce the students to the flood resilience industry – an area they may not have encountered before. Their thoughtful questions showed how valuable it is to share experience openly, broaden horizons and encourage young people to recognise opportunities where they might not expect to find them.”

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Flood Action Week 2026: A Review