Skye's Success on the 3:2 Initiative

Skye always knew she wanted to work in the construction industry. She was drawn to the challenge of working in a male-dominated environment and saw a future for herself in gas engineering. However, when she enrolled at Leeds College of Building, she was advised she needed an employer in order to join the gas engineering course. Without one, she was placed onto the plumbing course instead, even though this wasn’t her preferred route.

Skye applied for multiple apprenticeships but heard nothing back. The silence left her feeling ignored, discouraged, and unsure of how to move forward. That changed when she was introduced to Women and Manual Trades (WaMT).

3:2 Programme: Support & Training

Skye was enrolled on WaMT’s 3:2 Programme, a partnership initiative with local colleges designed for women who are training in construction but not yet working in the industry.

The programme provides:

• Paid part-time work alongside college study (3 days college / 2 days work)
• Employment with a contractor in the student’s chosen trade
• Support from a mentor or tradesperson on-site
• Fair pay, at minimum wage or higher
• A pathway to apprenticeship or employment at the end of the diploma

For Skye, the programme was crucial in building the skills, confidence, and readiness needed to step into a real job in her chosen trade.

Leeds College of Building: Partner Perspective

“Working with Meg at Women and Manual Trades, has provided some extra support and great opportunities for our female students. I first met with Meg last year as she began working with 2 of our first-year plumbing students. Meg had regular contact with them to get to know them and learn more about their ideas and plans for their future in the industry.

A short time later, through Meg, they were introduced to an employer who was looking to take on 2 new gas apprentices. With her guidance and 1-1 support, the students were able to attend their interview with confidence.

Both students are now working with that employer as gas apprentices and returning to LCB for their apprenticeship course. A great outcome and a positive step into construction for these students.”

Outcome:

With support from WaMT and Leeds College of Building, Skye was introduced to SureServe and successfully secured a Gas Engineer Apprenticeship. She is gaining hands-on experience, qualifications, and confidence in her trade, and is one of two female apprentices supported into gas engineering roles through this partnership.

She has since gone on to sign up for a women-only plumbing competition, where she will develop new technical skills, meet other women in the industry, and continue building her professional network.

WaMT’s partnership with Leeds College of Building is helping:

• Open up opportunities for women interested in construction
• Influence employers to see the value of hiring women
• Create visible role models for the next generation

Skye is now not only building her own future, but she is showing others what is possible. She said:

“WaMT supported me every step of the way, from helping with my CV and mock interviews to preparing me for the apprenticeship. Meg felt like my guardian angel, always checking in, asking for updates, and even attending my onboarding with me.

I had applied for so many apprenticeships before and never heard anything back, so without Meg, I don’t think I would have ever secured one.

I would absolutely recommend the 3:2 programme. It not only prepares you for college and exams but also gives you a real insight into what working in the industry is actually like.”