The year may be 2008, but there are still many myths and misconceptions about women working in certain male-dominated sectors ? like plumbing. Louise Pope tells us what it?s like to work in the industry, and what attracted her to it in the first place.
Name: Louise Pope
Age: 28
Industry: Property maintenance
Job title: CBS apprentice plumber
Relationship status: Single
Children: Kealan, eight years old
How long have you worked in your industry?
I studied for a year to gain my City and Guilds Level 2 prior to joining CBS and started my apprenticeship in December 2007.
What made you go into your industry?
I wanted to show my son the value of learning a trade. I also wanted to work in a job where I could see a tangible outcome ? for me the satisfaction is standing back and admiring what I?ve done at the end of the day.
What qualifications did you need to enter your profession?
I?ve already gained my City and Guilds Level 2 Plumbing. I will also need to complete my NVQ Level 2 in Plumbing, which I plan to do by September 2008. I will then need to study for my City and Guilds Level 3 and NVQ Level 3 in Plumbing.
There are a lot of stereotypes and misconceptions about working in a male-dominated industry. Do you have any myths you would like to dispel?
Yes ? I think some people may think women can?t complete a tradesperson?s job as well as a man because it can be quite physical. But I have had nothing but respect from my fellow colleagues and feel part of a strong team. As long as you are willing to muck in with everyone else, it doesn?t matter what your gender is.
Do you get the same/more pay as your male counterparts?
Yes – CBS has a number of apprentices and pay is decided by level of experience.
How do you manage childcare?
Childcare for Kealen is shared between my mother and sometimes friends. Kealan also goes to an after school club some days and a sports holiday club in the summer.
Do you find it hard to take time off for childcare reasons because you work in a male-dominated industry?
I?ve never had any problems to date ? CBS have been really supportive and have been flexible in allowing time off when needed.
Describe a defining moment in your career?
This would probably have to be putting in my first bathroom by myself ? I felt so proud that I had learnt and applied my skills. I had proved to myself I could do it.
Have you had any embarrassing situations?
Not as yet!
What advice would you give to mums who may have considered doing a job like yours but decided against it because of any misconceptions?
Go for it ? if you want to do something you should definitely try it out as a minimum. I find working with a lot of men great fun and really look forward to work.