Emma Fensom: I knew I enjoyed practical, hands-on work that can make a real, tangible difference to people’s lives
Emma Fensom decided to start an apprenticeship in a male-dominated trade after realising that a career in science was not fulfilling her passion. We speak to Fensom about her career transition, challenges and lessons she learned along the way.
Employer: ADCO Constructions
Profession: Plumbing
What made you decide to start an apprenticeship?
When I was a kid, I decided that I wanted to become a marine biologist and never waved all throughout high school. Eventually, after four years at university, with an undergraduate and postgraduate degree in hand, I realised how difficult it actually was to get a job in the field. I wasn’t prepared for the competitiveness I was facing, especially in my early twenties, I didn’t have the self-confidence or even sense of self to put myself out there and attempt to break down these barriers. Ultimately, with a heavy heart, I decided that a career in science wasn’t for me.
It was a tough time because after working for so long towards one goal, I had no idea what else I might want to do for work and I felt like I was falling behind in life. Until, one day in 2020, I was doing some renovations on our new kitchen (for which I seemed to have a knack) when my husband asked if I had ever considered learning a trade. I answered honestly, no! But the idea appealed to me because I knew I enjoyed practical, hands-on work that can make a real, tangible difference to people’s lives. I began researching different trades and reaching out to other women working in the industry to gain insight from their experiences and advice on how to forge my own path as a trade apprentice.
What do you like about your trade?
I like that plumbing is such a varied trade and the work isn’t all about what initially comes to mind (unblocking toilets etc.). You can work in maintenance or construction, residential or commercial and learn about drainage, water supply, gas fitting using a range of different materials and techniques. Plus, there are opportunities to move into more supervisory roles beyond your apprenticeship.
How did you find your opportunity?
After considering other trades such as tiling and carpentry, I ultimately chose plumbing because my Dad is a (really great) plumber. He introduced me to a woman Eilish; a plumber by trade and the state manager for a plumbing maintenance company for which he used to work. Upon meeting with her, she offered me work experience two days a week. I found myself loving the work and after a few months, I was offered an apprenticeship.
What advice would you give to a schoolgirl interested in your trade?
Firstly, absolutely go for it!
Embrace uncertainty. Don’t be afraid to try a few trades before you find the one that suits you best. You haven’t failed or wasted time, you’ve learnt something about yourself and will have gained skills to further your journey.
Take pride in being different. Don’t be afraid of what other people will think about your choices. Some may deem it unusual to be a female tradesperson but changing that attitude continues with you! Lady tradies are out there and the more, the better. Women can and should do these jobs, because we bring different strengths and perspectives to the table. You can have a successful, well paying, varied career, and thrive in the construction industry.
Finally, reach out if you need guidance. No career path is without its challenges, but there is so much support out there for women in construction. There are many organisations that exist to help you access mentoring, networking and navigate vast array of opportunities on offer.
What have you learned about yourself since you started?
Starting an apprenticeship at the age of 29 in a male-dominated industry was a bold move and I knew there would be challenges. But as I’ve gotten older, I’ve learnt that I have the courage and confidence it takes to be out of my comfort zone that as long as I’m doing the best I can, I can be proud of who I am and what I do.
