For our last story as part of National Apprenticeship Week, we’d like you to meet Cimmie, a Painting & Decorating Apprentice at Magna, who is currently studying Level 2 Painting and Decorating as part of her apprenticeship.
Cimmie said: “I chose to join Magna because at the time it was the only apprenticeship that popped up that actually sparked my interest that I would enjoy.”
“The college part of my apprenticeship is a lot more extensive than I first thought, looking into defects and being taught how a house is built, but it’s taught me a lot.”
Research carried out by the CITB in 2016 showed that only 2.6% of women in the UK work in skilled manual trades jobs such as the painting and decorating that Cimmie does, but she never let the societal stigma get in the way of her passion and interests and has excelled in her role since she joined us.
Cimmie added: “I won’t lie, there is a stigma about only men being in trades. You just have to continue on and prove them wrong.”
“My colleagues are amazing at Magna - they made feel welcome and would help me in any way if I asked.”
“I’d recommend an apprenticeship to others as you learn so much and gain so many skills. It allows you to get an insight into the job, and if you work hard, you gain so much respect.”
“I’d also like to encourage any females out there who’d like to do something that stereotypically seems like ‘a man’s job’ to go for it. That’s how change will happen.”
We’re proud to be able to support colleagues like Cimmie in their learning and development journey, and to offer apprenticeship opportunities in #TeamMagna and empower our colleagues to fulfil their passions and career goals with us.
You can learn more about what it’s like to be an apprentice with us here.
