Women tapping into trades in Walsall (05/02/10)

Gender is no barrier for women in Walsall who have set their sights on becoming qualified in traditionally male dominated trades.

Four women are currently enrolled on plumbing apprenticeships at Walsall Housing Group’s Skills Centre. Two of them have spoken about their unconventional career choice, to mark National Apprenticeship Week (1-5 February).

Self employed Rachel Toor, aged 18, and Karina Patel, 19, who works for mechanical and electrical contractor Dodd Group, are both studying an NVQ Level 3 in Plumbing. They will have completed the NVQ and be fully qualified by the end of the year.

Rachel, of Bilston, said: “I chose plumbing as I wanted a practical job, working with my hands, and saw plumbing as a great skill to learn. I enjoy meeting lots of people and get great satisfaction when they’re happy with the job I’ve done.

“It’s definitely something I’ll carry on doing long after the apprenticeship. I’ve found the Skills Centre teaching brilliant and really useful.”

Karina, of West Bromwich, added: “I’ve always wanted to do something in the building and construction trade and thought plumbing was ideal. I really enjoy the practical aspect to the job – it’s more suited to me than sitting in an office.

“When I’m not learning at the Skills Centre I’m on site fitting bathroom suites, which I really enjoy too.”

There have been a total of five female learners at whg’s Skills Centre since it opened in 1996, all on plumbing courses.

NVQ courses on offer include bricklaying, plumbing, electrical and carpentry. Key Skills in basic maths and English are taught to 16-18 year olds and there is a City & Guilds’ introductory certificate in aspects of construction.

Jane Preece, whg Director of Organisational Development, said: “At the whg Skills Centre we encourage all young people to learn a trade that supports employment. Rachel and Karina help to shatter the myth that construction roles are something that only men can do and clearly are making a real success in their chosen careers. They are great role models for other young females considering taking this route.”

Photo shows plumbing apprentices Rachel Toor and Karina Patel.