Female trio set for success in the automotive industry

While skilled manual jobs are traditionally seen as male dominated, Rebekah Gillis, from Aughnacloy a 17-year-old apprentice vehicle repair student at the Dungannon campus, has found no issues settling in on the Level 2 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair course and is enjoying the variety it provides. Rebekah said: "Motor vehicle repair is not just for boys; a girl can easily do as much as a boy can do."

For Dungannon campus student Ellie O'Hagan, aged 17 from Cookstown the Level 2 course has been truly transformative. She has found the independence of college life brilliant, expressing you get to manage your own time and with less exam pressure and more hands on learning it has been great. Apprentice Ellie reflects on her experience, saying, "The amount of knowledge I've gained in just eight months is incredible. Choosing to study motor vehicle repair has been the best decision I've ever made."

Likewise, Billie-Jo, aged 23 from Aughnacloy, has made impressive progress at the College, advancing from a Level 3 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair (Gold Apprenticeship) to Level 4 in her automotive studies. Billie Jo also earned a coveted spot on the WorldSkills UK Squad, after thriving in its national competitions.

Reflecting on her journey, Billie- Jo highlights the support from tutors and the valuable hands-on experience gained through her apprenticeship.Billie-Jo said:

“When I was leaving school, I wasn't certain about my career path, but I knew I had a passion for fixing things and didn't want a desk job.”

“I would recommend an apprenticeship at SWC to anyone, as all the tutors are fantastic, they support you and want to see you accomplish your goals. It provides you with more practical experience thanks to the apprenticeship route.”

'She also noted the increasing presence of women in the industry, stating, 'It used to be rare to see females in this field, but in recent years, more women are entering and making their mark.'