The opening of a specialised training facility for females in Derby attracted visitors from all round the UK at its official launch in July. Guests included a host of installers and merchants who wholeheartedly support the idea of encouraging women in to the sector, as well as a number of female plumbers looking to extend their skill base with relevant courses.
The brainchild of female plumber Philippa Cunningham, Pink Training Academy will improve training opportunities for women who wish to pursue a career in construction related industries and set up their own businesses. It is supported by some impressive brands including Ideal Boilers, Saniflo, Adey and Derby Homes; all of whom helped turn the vision into a reality.
The Mayor of Derby was on hand to cut the ribbon to the workshops where hands-on plumbing tasks will replicate the daily tasks of a plumbing and heating engineer. Classroom- based theory sessions will be held in the newly renovated training centre, whilst a unique opportunity to gain experience on live jobs will be offered by Derby Homes.
Qualified plumber, Shauna Potter, demonstrated the very neat installation of a Stelrad radiator to showcase the sort of practical skills that will be learned at Pink Training Academy. Having learnt her craft at the local college she can really see the benefits of complementary construction skills courses to students like her to broaden her portfolio;
“The Academy is a great idea and I’m so pleased it’s working out well for Philippa who’s had the passion and drive to set it up. I can see it benefiting women who wish to enter the sector, but also those who want to keep learning”.
Philippa, who is a former teacher turned plumbing company owner, is more than qualified for her new role as Training Academy founder. Overwhelmed at the response she said: “If I hadn’t had a chance conversation with Shaun Edwards of Ideal Boilers at the gym my idea would never have come to fruition. I am so grateful to him and the rest of the team at Ideal who’ve provided unrelenting help, along with Saniflo, Adey and Derby Homes. The turnout at the event literally blew me away. I really think we’re on to a winner here.”
