From the Tools to Design: Scott’s Journey into the D&E Team
After more than two decades working hands-on in the structured cabling industry, Scott Myford decided it was time for a new challenge. Having started his career “on the tools” at just 14 (making RJ45 patch cords in his family’s business) Scott built a wealth of experience across installation, field engineering, and telecommunications. But after years of early starts, long drives, and nights spent in hotels across the UK, he began to wonder what was next.
That’s when an opportunity arose to move into Design and Estimating (D&E) at Onnec. Encouraged by his brother, who also worked at the company, Scott took the leap and hasn’t looked back since.
Now four years into his role as a Design Consultant, Scott is one of 20 team members supporting projects across the UK, Ireland, Sweden, and the US. He’s worked on major clients across the tech sector, translating technical designs into detailed costings and materials for some of Onnec’s most complex projects.
He recently achieved his Certified Network Infrastructure Design Professional (CNIDP) qualification — a key milestone that validates his expertise and adds to Onnec’s growing list of accredited professionals.
Moving into D&E has been one of the best decisions I’ve made,” Scott says. “It’s a completely different pace from being on site every day, but it still draws on everything I learned in operations. It’s rewarding to see how that experience feeds directly into the design side
scott myford, Design Consultant at onnec
How did your career begin?
“I actually started in cabling when I was still at school—helping out in the family business making patch cords. After leaving school, I worked there full-time for ten years before trying something completely different for a couple of years in a garden centre! Eventually I found my way back into structured cabling…it’s what I’ve always known and loved.”
What made you decide to move into Design & Estimating?
“After years of travelling around the country and staying away for work, I wanted to get off the tools and find the next step in my career. The design role came up, and at first I wasn’t 100% sure what it involved. But after some research, I realised it was about taking all that field knowledge—understanding cabling, labour, and materials—and putting it down on paper in a different way.”
How was the transition into the role?
“It was definitely a learning curve, but I was well supported. I already knew the fundamentals of structured cabling, so it was more about learning new systems, like estimation software, and understanding manufacturer requirements. Over time, I’ve built up a much broader view of the industry, working with a range of vendors and products.”
What is the role of the Design & Estimating team?
“In simple terms, we take a client’s design or specification—say, a new office fit-out—and calculate the costs, labour, and materials needed to deliver it. We work closely with distribution partners and business managers to put together proposals that meet the client’s requirements. It’s detailed work, but it’s also very rewarding because no two days are ever the same.”
What skills or background are useful for someone moving into D&E?
“I think having a cabling background definitely helps. You don’t need to know everything, but understanding what fibre and copper cabling involves makes a big difference. That said, if you’ve got the right mindset and are willing to learn, it’s achievable. We’ve had people transition from other areas, like security, and they’ve done brilliantly.”
What do you enjoy most about your job?
“The variety. Every day brings something new; different clients, specs, and challenges. I also still get to go on-site for surveys, which keeps that connection to the practical side. And mentoring newer members of the team, like when I supported a colleague transitioning from security, has been really rewarding.”
What’s next for you?
“I’m pushing toward a more senior design role, that’s my next goal! The great thing about Onnec is that there’s room to grow, and you’re supported to keep developing your skills.”
Interested in learning more about the Design & Estimating team?
If you’re curious about career opportunities within D&E or want to understand how your skills could transfer, reach out to HR@Onnecgroup.com.
