A female apprentice from Salford campaigning for more women to take up careers in construction has been given a top award for her work.
Shelby Knight scooped Apprentice of the Year at Seddon’s Building Skills awards.
The 20-year-old was inspired to become a painter and decorator after hearing about her mum’s battle to get into the industry and is now encouraging more women to look into construction careers.
Shelby became a strong advocate for women in construction after learning that her mum was ‘laughed out of the room’ when she applied for the same job more than two decades ago.
Her determination, positivity and professionalism ensured she was honoured at builder and developer Seddon’s third annual apprentice awards at Salford College.
The awards recognise apprentices who have gone above and beyond in their roles and the people who have helped them on their way.
Shelby, of Walkden, who has just come to the end of her three year apprenticeship with the firm, said: “I’m overwhelmed – it’s been a fantastic way to end an amazing apprenticeship with Seddon.
“I’m really proud that I’ve been able to fulfil my dream and become the first woman to win the award – I didn’t know I was even nominated, which makes this extra special for me.
“Now I have completed my apprenticeship I am really excited to get stuck into my career with Seddon and work my way up to becoming one of the very few female forewomen working on site in the UK.”
Tony Costello, Training and Development Manager at Seddon, said: “Shelby is a rising star at Seddon, and is respected by everyone on site and in the classroom.
“She is a fantastic ambassador for the industry and is a credit to herself, her family and Seddon. I look forward to continuing to hear great things about Shelby in the future.”
