What has your career journey been like so far?
Back in 2008, I went to a taster day hosted by The Women’s Workshop, a centre that supported women and girls to join activities and training courses. The day included an introduction to skills like tiling, plastering and carpentry.
I particularly enjoyed the carpentry taster, so I went to college for a year to do an NVQ Level 3 site carpentry qualification. I then secured an apprenticeship at Kier, before finishing with United Welsh. I stayed at United Welsh, working on special projects.
Whilst at United Welsh, I became more interested in the surveying aspect, and decided I wanted to move away from working with tools. When a multi skilled carpenter role came up at CCHA in 2021, I jumped at the chance, and I had worked my way up to becoming a junior surveyor within a year.
At the minute, my role involves going out to homes to survey requests that come through from tenants and assigning the work to teams as appropriate.
I will be starting a two-year HNC in September, which is being funded by CCHA.
What attracted you to work for a housing association?
My main interest has always been to work on site, so when an opportunity came up to work within a housing association, it seemed like the ideal fit.
What have been your career highlights so far?
What do you enjoy most about working for CCHA?
I really enjoy working closely with tenants and being able to find solutions for problems, especially the more difficult ones.
What career tips would you give to someone wanting to pursue a career as a surveyor?
If you want something, just go for it. Don’t let nerves and fear of the unknown hold you back. Don’t let people hold you back, you’re in charge of your own destiny.
Anything else you’d like to add?
I just want to carry on learning. I left school without qualifications so I’m now seizing every opportunity that comes my way.