Here at Trade Skills 4U, we are keen to promote the electrical industry as an inclusive career for everyone from all backgrounds. We are proud to report that since November of last year the number of female students training with us has risen from 1.4% to a very respectful 3.7%. We can attribute this to being at the forefront of promoting opportunities such as the NICEIC’s ‘Jobs for the Girls’ campaign for more women to enter the trade.
Jobs For The Girls Campaign
Although women represent 50% of the UK workforce, they are severely under-represented in most trade professions. Figures indicate that less than 1 in every 1,000 electrical contractors is female. In 2011, the NICEC set up the ‘Jobs for the Girls’ campaign to encourage more women into the industry and redress the imbalance. Since its launch the campaign has featured in The Sun, The Times and Waitrose Magazine whilst NICEIC CEO Emma Clancy has also appeared on national TV and Radio. The NICEIC were subsequently invited to attend a parliamentary reception at Westminster where Emma was joined by women already working in the industry to present a case to members of parliament. To find out more about the work they have done in this area click here.
Now, the NICEIC plan to take the next step by offering up grants to those women already working in the industry, or looking to get a helping hand at the start of their career. The ‘Jobs for the Girls’ bursary scheme aims to encourage more women into the electrical industry. It is open to females of all ages and can help cover training or other associated costs up to a maximum of £500.
About The Bursary
The bursary is open to women who are working in, or looking to work in the electrical sector. However, priority will be given to:
- individuals committed to making a career in the electrical industry
- those already working within the sector
- those already signed up for an industry recognised qualification route into the industry
The bursary could be for financial help, direct training, technical help or advice on what to do next.
Women of any experience can apply for the grant here. If successful, the grant can be used towards any of our courses, whether you are a new entrant to the industry or an existing electrician who is upskilling.
Speaking from experience!
Speaking about her own role in the industry training new recruits, one of our electricals tutors Liliane Branca said: “I think it’s essential for women to remember that we can do anything. The most important thing to remember is that if you want to do something, don’t let anything get in your way. Just go for it and put everything into it. If you do that, you’ll succeed whether you’re a man or a woman.”
You can read Liliane’s full interview here and if you would like to read some case studies of women who have trained here at Trade Skills 4U, we have interviews with graduate electrical engineers Noemi Willenbockel and Kelly Vincent.