NICEIC’s campaign to draw more women into the electrical contracting industry has been shortlisted for a gong at the Women in Construction awards
A campaign to attract more women into the electrical contracting industry has been recognised for its work with a nomination for a gong at the Women in Construction awards.
The ‘Jobs for the Girls’ campaign was launched in 2011 by regulatory body NICEIC to redress the gender imbalance in the sector. Since its launch, the campaign has seen a number of opportunities made available for women, launched a female-led advertising strategy and set up a training academy.
Recognition
The Women in Construction awards are set to take plan on 1 March in Manchester. NICEIC received its nomination for the best staff training and development award. This was due to the work the organisation is doing with The Sheffield College and the charity WEST (Women in Engineering Science and Technology). This included a free taster session for women in the Sheffield area to see how electricians work. Practical sessions were also held to show how to wire up lighting circuits.
Furthermore, three women were offered a bursary following the event to become electricians. NICIEC offered financial as well as technical support throughout their studies. The organisation also helped them find work with a local registered contractor.
As a result of the help provided one of the students went on to earn an apprenticeship with housing provider The Guinness Partnership. She has also been shortlisted for an award in the best apprentice aged over 25 category.
Women still underrepresented
NICEIC CEO Emma Clancy said: “Although more women are now choosing to take up a career in the trades, the numbers are still painfully low.
“Men outnumber women nine to one in the trades sector and through our Jobs for the Girls campaign we want to change that.
“Since its launch in 2011 the Jobs for the Girls campaign has achieved a lot, but there is still more to do.”
