Construction – Ellie Rose Tizard

Ellie Tizard completed her Level 3 in Brickwork at Rotherham College and is now a Brickwork Technician where she supports construction students with their projects and hopes to inspire other young women to consider a career in the construction industry.

Ellie shared her experience of college, working full-time as a labourer for a landscape business and becoming a member of staff at Rotherham College, where she learned to craft her skills.

“I’ve always wanted to work in the construction industry and as it’s a male-dominated industry I really wanted to prove myself. I don’t like to follow trends; I like to follow my own path.

At College, I was the only girl in my group but it didn’t bother me because I was there to focus on learning. The tutors are incredibly supportive and helped me prepare for work by building my confidence, which meant when I was doing work experience I wasn’t afraid to ask questions.”

In Ellie’s final year at College her time was split between work experience with a local company called RPD Landscapes and developing practical skills at College.

Ellie says:

“When I finished College Rob, the owner of RPD Landscapes, employed me full-time. I worked there as a labourer and loved it; I picked up lots of additional skills including joinery.”

Now, as a Brickwork Technician she supports students with their projects, orders and prepares tools and materials and ensures workspaces are kept clean and tidy.

Ellie says:

“I wanted to come back and work for the College because it’s such a great environment to be in; everyone is so friendly. Some of the students have been surprised to find out that the new technician is a woman, but I hope that me being here will change those perceptions.

For anyone – and in women in particular – thinking about going into the industry I would say go for it. It can open so many doors. Studying Construction at Rotherham College is a great place to start: the courses are great, the college is great, the people are great.”