Profile photo of Lydia
Profile photo of Lydia

Lydia has a law degree. She also worked in customer service. Then, she decided to do an apprenticeship in Engineering and hasn't looked back. We had a chat with her to understand why did she decide to do an apprenticeship and how is it to work in a male-dominated industry.

1. What did you want to be when you were 5 years old?

A dancer.

2. What were you doing before the apprenticeship?

I was working as a customer service advisor for a payroll company in Canary Wharf where my role involved me setting up Umbrella and Limited companies for contractors.

3. Why did you decide to do an apprenticeship?

I wanted to learn something new, but I did not want to incur the cost associated with going to university, as I already have a law degree and post graduate qualification from completing my LPC. I knew with an apprenticeship there will be no financial cost for me, I will receive the necessary qualifications and experience required for the role, whilst still receiving an income and I will be guaranteed a job at the end of the 3 years. These factors were very important to me, which is why I made the decision that an apprenticeship was more suitable for my needs.

4. Why did you choose engineering?

My partner had applied for an engineering apprenticeship and this was what initially caught my interest. I then looked into engineering a little further and felt that this will be a challenge for me.

A challenge I relished and decided to pursue.

5. Engineering is a male-dominated industry. Have you ever had any constraints in your role?

None so far. I am given all the training required to carry out my role, therefore, as long as I have had the necessary training, nothing should be a big shock to me or limit me in any way. Engineering is far too important to be left to just men.

6. What advice would you give to a woman thinking of applying to an engineering role?

Just apply, a career in engineering will actually surprise you in a positive way. It’s fun, exciting and a very rewarding career.

 

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