Isobel Wain-Heapy is a Manufacturing Management Trainee at Ibstock PLC, completing her degree apprenticeship in BEng Materials Technology.
Reflecting on joining the industry, Construction wasn’t Isobel’s first choice. “I never set out with the ambition of working in the construction industry, instead I really enjoyed chemistry at school and college, and I had worked alongside my education since I was thirteen, developing a good work ethic so I thought an apprenticeship would be the best route for me. I found the apprenticeship with Ibstock advertised on the government website and thought it could suit me, initially grasped by the laboratory work it offered.”
During her apprenticeship, Isobel has grown and developed an array of technical knowledge and skills: “Now, in the second year of my apprenticeship, I am aware of how varied the role truly is – and this is what I love about it. I have had opportunities to learn about the science behind our manufacturing processes, but also about quarry operations, health and safety, sustainability and the financial side of the manufacturing industry. This variety continually challenges me and gives me the opportunity to diversify my skill set, which will be an asset to me in future.”
Gender hasn’t become a barrier or hindrance to Isobel’s development in the industry: “I am fortunate that, in my time as an apprentice at Ibstock, I have not felt hindered by my gender in any way. I am lucky to work as part of such a lovely team at the Chailey factory, where I am fully supported in my work, and do not feel that I am treated differently due to my gender.”
Isobel believes that Role Modelling, mentorship and being represented are paramount to encouraging more women into the industry: “To increase awareness and support other females into male-dominated industries, I try to do as much volunteering as possible as part of my role as a STEM Ambassador. This volunteering involves one-on-one tuition, career fayres, assemblies and school trips; I think it is very important that as apprentices, we are visible to students deciding their next steps, as it is likely they may not have even considered a career like mine. I also mentor two female apprentices in the year below me on the Ibstock apprenticeship scheme, I try to offer them both as much support and advice as possible, to ease their transitions into their new roles.”
On advice for other individuals considering an apprenticeship in the Construction / Building Materials industry, Isobel said: “My advice to anyone considering an apprenticeship in the construction industry would absolutely be to just fill in the application form! It can be daunting, as a lot of the industry can seem unknown as a school leaver with no prior experience of the workplace, however almost all apprenticeship application processes involve assessment centres, and my one with Ibstock included a factory tour, which was a great way to get a feel for the workplace, and ensure the apprenticeship was a good pathway for me.”
“Ultimately, I feel an apprenticeship was the right choice for me, as it combines my academic interests with industry experience, and I would recommend it to anyone looking to continue their academic studies with a more hands-on approach.”
