CITB apprentice Zoe Evans painting a picture of success
Zoe Evans from Llanelli became a CITB apprentice in September 2017, enrolling on a level 2 painting and decorating programme before progressing to complete her level 3 in the summer of 2019.
Zoe’s attitude and professionalism during the programme was second-to-none. At Coleg Sir Gâr, where Zoe studied, she was a classroom lead, taking the initiative to trail blaze and promote within the college technologies such as Google Documents.
Zoe went on to represent the college at national level in the SkillBuild competition where she performed admirably. She also took on the mantle of ambassador for the college and, after completing the prestigious WorldSkills public speaking course, had the confidence to go into schools and promote women in construction, in particular the opportunities available for Black and Minority Ethnic students – ultimately encouraging the next generation of tradeswomen to come into the construction industry.
On site Zoe was very much respected, a tradeswomen who performed to a very high standard. She was picked to travel the UK for important jobs – her employer, Ian Williams Ltd, was safe in the knowledge that the job would be completed to the highest standard. Towards the end of her apprenticeship Zoe was commissioned to design and paint a mural in her employer’s office.
With her artistic flair, Zoe enjoys the creative aspects of her trade and plans to take a career route in interior design. Zoe’s amazing commitment to being the best she can, has attributed to her becoming an ambassador for women in construction and being the face of the posters across Coleg Sir Gâr.
Zoe said: “I’ve loved every single part of my apprentice journey, from the classroom learning to the practical application and the more creative aspects of the job. I want to thank my mentor, Ken MacKay and my employer Ian Williams Ltd. It’s a really good feeling to know that I’ve been recognised in this way. I’d definitely recommend an apprenticeship to anyone willing to work hard, have goals and go full out to achieve them.”
Throughout her apprenticeship Zoe has never had things easy outside of work and college; she has had some difficult years juggling her school life while caring for her disabled sister. Caring took its toll on Zoe’s mental health and, after suffering for many years with depression, she says that some days are still very tough but now, with the help of professional support, she is in a much better place and is looking forward to the future with hope and optimism.
Zoe’s ‘can-do’ attitude is infectious. Her steely determination and desire to succeed, coupled with a really well developed skillset, has set Zoe up for a successful career.
Jon Davies, CITB Apprenticeship Officer, said: “When Zoe started her apprenticeship we saw her potential so we fast tracked her from level 1 to level 2. It was important for me to make sure she had the right support to reach the heights she is capable of, and she is doing just that. Zoe makes work a brighter place for everyone around her. Her positive attitude and ability makes her a perfect ambassador for women in construction.”
Her successes on the CITB programme culminated in her winning the CITB Apprentice of the Year award, a huge achievement and one that will hopefully aid her construction career.
Employers seeking to recruit apprentices or to upskill their existing workforce can get more information about Apprenticeships or other skills and training programmes by visiting the Business Wales Skills Gateway businesswales.gov.wales/skillsgateway/skills-and-training-programmes/apprenticeships or by calling 03301 228 338.
Individuals who are finding their way in the world of work or taking steps towards a career change can find out more at https://gov.wales/apprenticeships-genius-decision.
More News Articles
« Mahima launches her career with an apprenticeship at Welsh Parliament — Passion for work-based learning lands Fiona a quality job »
