Success Stories

Cheryl found out about apprenticeships from GB MET's apprenticeship team, who arranged for her to start her apprenticeship with Mears.

Cheryl explained "I was aware of their reputation as a social housing repairs and maintenance company so this was something I was really interested in. Mears actively support women working in trades and treat every individual with respect. They are mindful in preventing discrimination to people as individuals without judgments being made of them.

I am gaining experience as a carpenter at Mears. At present I am learning how to fix door frames, renew doors, flooring, kitchen installations, staircases and ceilings. I also replace hundreds of different door locks and ironmongery. Health & safety is very important at Mears and an inspection report is completed for each job and I am fully aware of hazards and when/how to use personal protective equipment. I was recently tasked with supervising an in-house minor refurbishment project. It was really good to be able to get my teeth stuck into something like this and to be supported throughout the project. I learned more about other trades too."

Cheryl continued "The college expects me to have all my work done on time and to a high standard and work as a team with all the apprentices at Mears in and out of college. I enjoy working within a team and with communication with each trade. It helps to develop professional and technical growth. I love it! For the first time I have been taken seriously as a woman and have a mentor at Mears who ensures this message is clear and supports me. Working at Mears I haven't looked back. I'm learning every day. I have a good team at the office and love working with them."