Erin Prince has been a Sheet Metal Apprentice with Genuit Group since September 2023.
Erin’s day-to-day responsibilities involve basic machine maintenance and operating various machines to produce production components.
On how she first felt about the industry before joining, Erin says: “I didn’t really know what to expect before starting my apprenticeship at Nuaire as I hadn’t had any prior experience, I had my doubts at first as I knew that I would be the only female working in the sheet metal area but my original idea of what it would be like was definitely proved wrong.”
Being a woman in a male-dominated industry hasn’t stopped Erin in her apprenticeship: “It’s a lot better than others may think, I was surprised by how quickly I settled in and was welcomed by everyone, now I don’t really give it a second thought.”
She continues: “I don’t believe that how I carry out my role has been affected by my gender as I have the same responsibilities and capabilities as other apprentices on sheet metal which gives me confidence that I am able to perform as I should.”
Reflecting on positive changes she has seen in gender equity and inclusion, Erin says: “There have definitely been some changes since I first started at Nuaire that I personally really appreciate, one of which being a women’s only bathroom being added to the factory floor which is great!”
On what attracted Erin to a role in the Construction/Building materials Industry, she says: “I was first interested in working in this industry as I knew that it would provide me with an opportunity to further my career in mechanical engineering and the construction industry seemed the most suitable for me.”
Her advice for other women who are thinking about applying for an Apprenticeship in the construction/Building Materials Industry is: “In my own experience I’d say just go for it and apply. Apprenticeships in the construction industry are a great way to start your career and really aid your future as you gain so much experience and knowledge in the process.”
