We spoke to Jonathan Tasker from Elite Dental Studios to hear about how what he likes the most about his job and his interests outside of work.
Please introduce yourself and where you work
My name’s Jonathan Tasker and I work at Elite Dental Studios in Burgess Hill, West Sussex.
Tell us about where you grew up and what your family was like
I grew up in Burgess Hill which is about 10 miles north of Brighton, close to both the sea and the South Downs. I had a pretty regular upbringing, I have two brothers, one’s a nurse and the other’s a police officer.
What led you to a career in dentistry?
Honestly? The job centre… I was looking for work and I saw this role. I had no idea what it was about, so I enquired and 25 years later I’m still here.
What do you like the most about it?
Each and every case that comes in! And we see quite a few. If what I do even in my own small way can help to give that a person’s confidence and smile back then that’s what I dig most about my job.
Sounds corny, I know, but it’s true.
And he creative elements of the job go without saying. Making stuff out of wax, destroying it and seeing it reborn in metal is cool.
Who/what have been the strongest influences in your life?
The biggest influences in my life are my family.
I have an awesome wife and two amazing daughters who are my world. They inspire me to get up and do my best everyday.
How would friends and acquaintances describe you?
My kids would describe me as uncool and annoying. I disagree.
Share with us something about yourself that you want to improve
There’s always room for improvement in every aspect of life as long as you’re not putting too much pressure on yourself. Happiness is where it’s at – aim for happiness.
How do you unwind outside of lab technical work?
Outside of work I enjoy hanging out with my family.
I also enjoy murdering the bass guitar, getting tattooed and falling off a skateboard. Not very highbrow…
Where’s your favourite holiday destination?
The Maldives. My wife and I went there years ago and I’d love to go back.
What’s your favourite film?
Close Encounters of the Third Kind. I’ve watched it countless times and still get completely caught up in it.
What music do you listen to?
I listen to all sorts of music, mostly the heavier side of rock music. But all genres have some appealing qualities.
What was the last picture you took on your phone?
The last picture was work related – as is most of my gallery!
Sum yourself up in three words
Happy and content. That’s three words.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
It’s a team effort so I’d like to thank everyone at Elite, past and present, especially Garry, Carl and Duncan.
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