BUSINESS AND TRAINING 17
Women on Site
Edited by
Tanya Olckers – Submitted by BluLever Education
Plumbing Africa thanks BluLever Education for providing coverage of their ongoing Women on Tools campaign , which aims to change the narrative about women in the trades by sharing the success stories of their female apprentices .
Potlako Rakabe sees herself as fortunate to be studying through an institution like BluLever . Here is her story in her own words :
I would describe myself as someone who has more trade skills . I did electrical engineering and I honestly wanted something more in line with my personality . I found myself applying for the plumbing apprenticeship , which inspired me more because this field is male dominated .
I knew I would one day want to inspire future female generations that with those small hands you can work and someday change the narrative that of plumbing is for men ! I knew what I was getting myself into , so truly I was more excited to find myself in this male dominated industry believing and hoping the stigma of plumbing will change .
Images supplied by BluLever Education
In my first EBL , I found a supervisor who would just explain things ( like maintaining a toilet ) rather than giving us the actual chance of working . It seemed that he believed that " women should be treated like an egg and learn by listening and not working ."
This attitude lowered my self-esteem since I was a first year and I was shy to address things , instead choosing to move with the flow . As I was there , listening , I remembered the first reason that led me into a plumbing field : change the narrative .
One day we were digging a trench and I decided I wasn ’ t going to just sit and listen , so I took up a pick and dug to prove that I am capable . He , and the whole team , were impressed . Later , I was given more chances to work with my hands
The mindset of people has not shifted – they are still not used to seeing a female fixing their homes . However , most clients are inspired by seeing a young woman taking tools out and fixing their leaks . This has been the most rewarding aspect of working in this field because this shows that if I am a female and can fully fix this , other women can do that too !
Plumbing requires critical thinking and technical skills . Diagnosing problems and finding solutions can be intellectually stimulating . It paves the way for other women and shows that this is a viable career choice . For example , being a female plumber who excels at explaining complex plumbing issues to clients in a clear and concise way . This would not only put the customer at ease but also build trust and positive relationships .
Potlako Rakabo , BluLever apprentice .
There ' s a growing recognition that plumbing is a trade that ' s open to everyone . Organisations and schools are working to dismantle stereotypes and encourage women to pursue careers in the trades . More women are entering the plumbing industry , creating a network of mentors and role models who can inspire , and support others and the emphasis is increasingly on skills and qualifications , not gender .
Plumbing companies are recognising the value that women bring to the workforce . For example , The current am at they believe in inclusivity and diversity , as a student I am currently pursuing my plumbing experience and there I am not treated like a female nor a student .
Unfortunately , you might encounter outdated attitudes . Brush off negativity and focus on proving your skills . Remember , true professionals value competence , not gender . This starts with you looking for apprenticeship programmes or trade schools that are known for inclusivity and fostering diverse talent .
“ Plumbing companies are recognising the value that women bring to the workforce .”
September 2024 Volume 30 I Number 7 www . plumbingafrica . co . za