CHLOE’S STROKE OF LUCK AMID PANDEMIC
CHLOE Hills was plying her trade as a formwork carpentry apprentice when her employer suddenly closed down due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
But the 25-year-old only had to down tools for a short time, switching her focus to sign up for a painting apprenticeship with Hobart Painting
and Decorating. “My original plan was to do painting,” she said.
“It’s definitely more my pace, listening to music and painting. Obviously it’s still got its challenges though, every job does and that’s what keeps you on your toes.”
Miss Hills previously worked in retail but then realised she wanted to pursue a trade, and she was helped by
apprenticeship network provider MEGT.
Now, she couldn’t be happier and said she had been warmly welcomed by her employer and she was not concerned at working in a maledominated industry.
“I obviously had to have an open mind because I know how blokes talk and everything,’’ she said with a laugh. “I was worried the older blokes would have been a bit more traditional, but it was the complete opposite. They were wicked to work with.”
Hobart Painting and Decorating owner Leith Young has been in the trade for 20 years and said he was pleased to have his new recruit on board. “She’s picked things up quite well,’’ he said.