Jade gets inspiration from wartime women

Jul 10 2008 by Karen Dent, The Journal

A 16-YEAR-OLD apprentice has drawn inspiration from the Second World War by opting to work in what is still seen as a traditionally male-dominated career.

Jade Orton is studying for an apprenticeship in welding and fabrication with the North East Chamber of Commerce (NECC) while working at Kastle Engineering, where she reckons she is seen as “just one of the lads”.

Jade took her lead from the women who staffed the munitions factories during the fight against Hitler, manufacturing tanks and ammunition for British troops.

She said: “I think people tend to forget the role that women played during World War II, but if they could do it then, why can’t we do it now?

“I’m proud to work in a male-dominated environment and I want other young females in the North East to know that they don’t have to stick to traditional careers, there are other options.”

The NECC is an apprenticeship training provider and recent research has shown apprenticeships are coming back into fashion as employers find it harder to find skilled labour.

Jade, from Redcar, is serving her apprenticeship with Kastle Engineering in Marske, which she initially visited on a work placement.

NECC regional training manager John Hills said: “Jade is an exemplary role model for other young females who are interested in pursuing a career in an alternative field.”

Jade’s long-term ambitions include working abroad as a welder and eventually running her own fabrication business. A recent national survey conducted by the Learning and Skills Council shows that 77% of employers believe apprenticeships make them more competitive.