More women should aim for the plumb jobs, like me!
JODIe DeNISS was inspired to train as a plumber after a careers’ fair at school.
So the 18-year- old gained an NVQ Level 1 and 2 in plumbing and then joined Pimlico Plumbers in May on work experience. A month later she was signed up to the London company’s apprenticeship scheme.
Jodie, from Forest hill, says: ‘The lack of women in plumbing is ridiculous, and there definitely needs to be more. There’s huge demand for more female plumbers in the trade, as there are many customers who feel more com- fortable inviting a female plumber into their home.’
Jodie advises other women to ‘strongly consider’ plumbing as a career option. ‘Lots of people think it’s a job for men, but girls are just as capable,’ she says.
‘It’s challenging and I did have reservations at the start, but now I’ve got a great career that should give me a good living in the future.
‘ Female plumbers are breaking down barriers, and I want to continue to do this until I make a £1 million.’ On the Pimlico Plumbers’ apprenticeship scheme Jodoe worked with a mentor and was put straight to work.
‘I’ve been out helping with routine maintenance and worked with the drain-jetting team. I’ve even been with the emergency maintenance team and worked with the qualified heating engineers.’
Meanwhile, hundreds of providers across the country offer skilled trades courses for those who want a refresher as well as courses for people looking for a career change.
Chris Goss retrained as a locksmith after 30 years in accountancy and IT. Chris, 52, who runs Averkey Locksmiths Ltd in Danbury, essex, was inspired to change careers after being forced to get a replacement car key. he completed a course with the UK Locksmiths Association last November.
The UKLA two-day course covers the essentials to set up as a mobile locksmith, including rim cylinder and mortice lock picking and fitting, key cutting, garage locks and window locks. It also advises on starting a business. The third day provides further in-depth information.