18-year-old, Plumbing and Domestic Heating Apprentice, Maizie, is leading the way for women in construction, having been selected to compete in the brand-new HIP Female Skills competition.
Currently in the first year of her Level 3 apprenticeship with national employer, PH Jones, Maizie will compete in the first-ever female regional heats next month, conducting a live practical installation for the chance to win a place at the grand final.
Maizie joins only 14% of women currently working in the construction industry according to recent Office for National Statistics (ONS) data. An Industry which is experiencing a significant skills shortage due to an ageing construction workforce and the return to economic growth.
In her role as a Plumbing and Domestic Heating Technician Apprentice at PH Jones, Maizie works across social housing and local authorities providing service and repair work for tenants and customers.
When asked why she chose a plumbing apprenticeship, Maizie said: “I could never see myself in a desk job or a job where I would be committed to working in one place. I always knew I was more suited for a hands-on role that allowed me to be out in the community.
“I am a very active person; I work better when I am on the go and love being in different environments. I wanted a job where each day holds a new challenge, and a plumbing apprenticeship offered me that.”
The number of women starting a career in construction has been on a steady increase over the last decade, however, more needs to be done to inspire and encourage more women to take up a career in construction. Maizie is one of many new HIP entrants who is showcasing that there are real opportunities for women to demonstrate their skills, grow their careers and receive recognition for the work they do.
The College currently has 24 female students enrolled on apprenticeships, working across various construction trades. Apprenticeships are great way for women to enter the industry, offering not only young people but adults the opportunity to gain the skills and knowledge they need to pursue a trade as a career.
Speaking about joining a traditionally male dominated industry, Maizie said: “At first, I was unsure, especially the thought of walking into a group of males, but if anything, it made me feel empowered. Over time it has given me so much confidence in everything I do.”
She added: “Everyone I work with at PH Jones has been so welcoming and supportive and I accept the challenges that come my way. I look forward to creating a career in this industry and helping to change the stereotypes that surround it.”
College Plumbing and Gas Engineering Tutor, Chris Lee, commented: “Maizie has made fantastic progression since starting her apprenticeship and I am proud to say she will be representing the College at the very first HIP Female Skills competition. She is leading the way as a female within the plumbing and heating industry and is a role model for other young women looking to enter the profession.”
Once Maizie completes her apprenticeship, she hopes to secure full-time employment as a Heating and Gas Engineer and hopes her experience will encourage other women to be open to the possibility of a career in construction.
Paula Haigh, the College’s Business Development Manager, added: “Maizie is a fabulous ambassador for women in construction and we are extremely proud she will be the first representative from College for the new HIP female competition. We all wish her well for the heat and are keenly following her apprenticeship journey and career progress.”
If you are interested in completing an apprenticeship or if you are an employer and would like to find out more about apprenticeships and how they could benefit your business, contact our Business Development Team on 01744 623521 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
