"My job is always a good point of conversation when I meet people! I love the hands-on approach and that you handle projects from start to finish, while discovering how things work"

"I haven't had any problems working in a male environment"

Skilled trades - Carpentry

Helen Welch
Self-employed carpenter

When I was doing my A-levels, I became frustrated with the theoretical approach and didn't take a lot of interest in the course. I discovered a community woodworking scheme and thought I'd give it a go. I really enjoyed it and a year or so later I got a carpentry apprenticeship with Camden Council.

My job is always a good point of conversation when I meet people! I love the hands-on approach and that you handle projects from start to finish, while discovering how things work.

I haven't had any problems working in a male environment. In fact, it has given me lots of confidence in many different situations.

This trade means that you have the chance to become self-employed later on, like me. So I can structure my hours to suit my life. I'm not good with people telling me what to do, and like having control over what I do, so it really suits me.

I'm paid well, so I can support myself by doing a job I enjoy. I get respect from other tradespeople and feel an enormous sense of accomplishment when I finish a project.

Any woman who is thinking about changing their career should just go for it and ignore the people who say otherwise. I love my work and can't recommend it highly enough.