JTL champions female electricians on International Women’s Day

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  Posted by: electime      8th March 2024

JTL champions female electricians on International Women’s Day

This International Women’s Day, JTL, a leading apprenticeship provider across England and Wales, is shining the spotlight on women working in the traditionally male-dominated electrical trade.

JTL actively addresses the need for diversity in the electrical industry and champions the valuable skills and perspectives that female electricians bring to businesses.

To gain first-hand insights into the experiences of women in the electrical trade, JTL spoke with Demi Whitehead, a newly qualified electrician at William Davis Homes. Former JTL apprentice, Demi, highlights the rewards and challenges associated with her career path, inspiring others to consider this fulfilling career.


Independence in a hands-on role

When asked what she loves most about her job, Demi emphasised the freedom and independence that come with being a qualified electrician.

“I mainly work on second fixings in new build homes, so there’s a lot of independent working in my role. I always try and set myself challenges throughout the day to keep me motivated.”


Supporting other young women

 Demi is passionate about encouraging other young women to consider the electrical industry as a career option, she advises them to “just go for it!”

As a female electrician, Demi challenges the existing misconceptions about the suitability of such roles for women. She firmly believes that gender should not be a barrier to entering and thriving in this field of work. Demi emphasises that there are no limitations in her role based solely on her gender.

“Whilst some people still haven’t got their heads around the idea that women can do it as well, there isn’t anything I can’t do in my role because I’m a woman.”


Building a supportive network and inspiring others

 While acknowledging the lack of established female role models in the industry, Demi finds inspiration in the growing number of women entering the trade.

“I work really closely with a lot of younger female electricians and me and my other female colleague always make sure to check in with them and support them where we can.”

Encouraging more women to enter trade-focused roles

Demi believes that raising awareness about the presence of women in the trade is crucial.

“It needs to be put out there more that women are working and succeeding in these roles.”

She highlights the need to challenge the surprise many express upon learning about her profession. Demi also actively promotes her experience through her social channels, inspiring other young women to consider this career path.

“If any women are looking at entering the trade, I would highly recommend doing so through an apprenticeship, it’s a great way to ‘get your feet under the table’ and learn key skills that are needed for the job.”

JTL is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce, with apprenticeships serving as evidence for this vision. JTL believes that everyone, regardless of gender, deserves the opportunity to build a fulfilling career in their chosen trade. By encouraging more women to pursue apprenticeships and participate in the electrical industry, JTL aims to:

  • Bridge the gender gap: by encouraging and supporting women in the electrical trade, JTL contributes to closing the existing gender gap and promoting equal opportunities in the sector
  • Address the skills shortage: the UK faces a significant skills shortage in the building services engineering sector. Encouraging women to enter the electrical trade helps address this shortage and ensures a robust future for the industry itself
  • Unlock potential for individuals to have a fulfilling career: the electrical industry offers a range of exciting career opportunities with high earning and growth potential. By supporting women in entering this field, JTL is opening doors to rewarding and successful careers for a diverse range of individuals.

This International Women’s Day, JTL celebrates the achievements of female professionals, like Demi Whitehead, and reiterates its commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment in the electrical trade.

Find out more about JTL apprenticeships here: https://jtltraining.com/apprenticeships/