How I did it

Sally Doherty (27) 1st Year apprentice with Sisk, from Balbriggan, Co Dublin

Why I chose an apprenticeship in carpentry and joinery

I was sporty at school and always liked working with my hands, but like most all-girls’ schools, mine offered no technical classes. You can’t see what you can’t see.

College wouldn’t have suited me, so I went travelling after school, came back and started working in a gym. I was walking the dog when I noticed a poster in a window for an open day Sisk was holding on Grangegorman college campus. I went along and spoke with Dave Taylor, the training manager. I told him how interested I was in carpentry and sustainable building. I’d love to get involved in eco housing one day. I explained that I had no experience. He said it didn’t matter so long as I had a good attitude and was willing to work hard.

How to apply

Having filled out a form and put in my CV, I went for an interview at Sisk and said, ‘Look, I’ll put my hands up — I have no experience, but I’ll work really, really hard.’ I think they could see how passionate I was.

What to expect

You’re hands-on from 8.30am to 5pm. You’re right in at the deep end. I’d never held a drill in my life, now I’m using power tools every day, with the support of my manager.

Pros

The job satisfaction is huge. We have a great work team, I’m learning new stuff every day and I love it.

Cons

The gender imbalance. I’m the first female apprentice Sisk has had in 10 years. That’s not due to the company. Women are just not applying.

What next?

I hope to go on to be a junior foreperson apprentice.

‘I’d love to get involved in eco housing one day’