With Louise Wakefield
Louise Wakefield, currently in her final year of an electrical apprenticeship with SES Engineering Services, found her passion for engineering in an unexpected place: home renovations with her dad. After realising how much she enjoyed the practical work and learning from her father’s knowledge, Louise decided to pursue a career in the field.
After a year of college to solidify her interest, she began searching for electrical apprentice roles and discovered SES Engineering Services. From the first interview, Louise felt welcomed and supported by the SES team. “The person who did my interview was honestly the nicest person I’d ever met,” she recalls.
Since starting her apprenticeship, Louise has found SES to be incredibly supportive. “Ever since day one, they’ve just been there non-stop for me,” she says. She appreciates that SES makes sure she is provided with a variety of project opportunities where she can learn and maximise her apprenticeship experience.
As a woman in a male-dominated industry, Louise has faced some unique challenges. However, she remains unfazed and is determined to prove herself. She hopes to eventually reach a managerial role and inspire more women to enter the trades. “It would be great to see another ponytail on a site”, she jokes.
Louise’s advice for aspiring female engineers and apprentices is to ask questions and embrace learning opportunities. She urges women not to be discouraged by common misconceptions and believes that the construction and engineering industry is very supportive.
With her drive to change stereotypes and her commitment to her craft, Louise Wakefield is an electrical apprentice to watch.