Spotlight on Talent – Charlotte Flynn

Studying – Level 3 Plumbing and Domestic Heating Technician Apprenticeship Standard with Jetcast Plumbing and Drainage Services Ltd

Working in a different location every single day is one of the key things Charlotte Flynn enjoys about her Plumbing Apprenticeship.  With Sutton Coldfield-based Jetcast Plumbing and Drainage Services, she has been involved in plumbing and draining works, building maintenance and domestic operations for a variety of commercial and residential properties.

“As a plumber, you come across something different each day,” said Charlotte, who is completing her qualification with Walsall College.  “Being with different colleagues also adds to the variety.”

Since starting her Apprenticeship in December 2021, Charlotte has noticed how her skills have improved.

“I’ve built up my strength over the last year or so,” she said.  “I have a much better grip so I don’t struggle to tighten nuts and bolts like I used to.

“My work is better too.  When I first started, my boss would check over what I had done.  That happens less and less.

“It’s also easier to pick things up when I’m shown how to do something for the first time.”

Charlotte is now so advanced in her training that she has been able to fit an entire bathroom suite during a house refurbishment.  This includes the radiator, bath, shower and basin.

“Every property comes with its own challenges, whether it’s an issue with pipes, guttering, gulleys or drains,” continued Charlotte.  “The work is never boring.”

Females are underrepresented in plumbing so Charlotte is keen to promote what she and others enjoy about working in the sector.

“While some clients are initially surprised to see me in this job, they’re always really encouraging,” added Charlotte.

“Women see it as an advantage to have me work on their properties.  They tell me they’ll ask for me again in future.”

Charlotte has settled so well into her Apprenticeship that she hopes to widen her expertise on a gas training course.  This is in addition to potentially completing a degree-level qualification.

Her progress is all the more remarkable as someone who initially wasn’t sure if plumbing would suit her.

“I prefer plumbing to all my previous jobs in retail and fast food hospitality,” said Charlotte.  “I had started training as an electrician but somehow this didn’t quite feel right.  Plumbing suits me better.  I’m doing the hands-on work I expected to enjoy and I like the challenges I come across.

“I see myself training other apprentices in future and doing more to promote this industry to others looking to join a trade.”