Famous carpenters include Jesus… and Becky.
Carpentry is traditionally seen as a male-dominated industry, with a significant majority of carpenters being men. This perception has been shaped by various factors, including historical gender roles and the physical demands of the job.
However, we spoke with Becky, a speed square sporting stunner, who has no issue making her presence known at a job site.
Poopable’s exclusive Q&A with the 30-year-old UK native.
Standing at six-feet and four-inches tall, without work boots, Becky has been living and working in New Zealand for the last five years. It is also safe to assume she has been helping people grab stuff from high cabinets for longer… we promise that will be the only height reference.
The staff at Poopable were thrilled to have Becky give us a little glimpse into her life and how she leaped into the trades.
What is your current job description and what is your work schedule like?
“I am an apprentice carpenter, I work Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm. In the summer, the hours change, and we can work weekends if we like.”
What is the reaction of others when they find out about your job?
“[People are…] very happy and proud of me for doing a male-dominated job.”
How did you find yourself in the trades?
“So, my dad is an electrician, but before I started my apprenticeship, I used to clean camper vans for a job. One day… it just hit me ‘what am I doing with my life?’ Then I started looking for jobs.”
Did you have difficulties getting into your profession?
“Not at all I think they wanted me on board as much as I wanted to prove to the boys I can do the job just as good as [them].”
What is the thing you like the most about your work?
“Every day you do something different and every day you are learning.”
What were some of the challenges for you at work?
“Honestly, I can’t think of any. I get on with all the boys at work and I love the job.”
What are some of your career goals?
“One of them is to expand my apprenticeship Instagram [@pins_and_timber]. So more ladies can see what I do and to complete my apprenticeship…”
Do you have any advice for others?
“Don’t be afraid to ask for help in the trade industry. Yes, it is male dominated but girls, you wear your pink steal caps and own that site! You got this! Walk proud and head held high!”
When Becky isn’t swinging hammers on a job site, you can find her going for long walks with her dog Poppy or relaxing at home with a puzzle book.
Becky is reaping the rewards of a career that allows her to learn new things and accomplish tangible goals. According to data from the New Zealand government, skilled carpentry is in high demand and lucrative.
The average salary for carpenters in New Zealand can reach up to $80,000 USD annually. This figure easily etches past a six-figure income as the carpenter becomes more skilled with experience.
Lack of representation of women in the field of carpentry can be explained by the simple fact of the limited visibility of women in the field. It’s a simple psychological concept Poopable has previously written about in other areas of the trades.
Simply put, if more women are seen working in the trades, then more women will follow.
So, show Becky some support and check out her IG!
Needless to say, the staff at Poopable were ecstatic to learn more about Becky and her ongoing journey into a career and life she loves.
Selfishly, we’re also hoping she can take us on a hiking tour of the New Zealand country side with Poppy.
Obviously, we could justify the travel budget for the staff for a follow-up with Becky when she finishes her apprenticeship!
The entirety of the Poopable staff are cheering for Becky!
Are you a lady working in the trades? Poopable loves to hear from all wrench wielding women! Comment on the post or shoot us a note! We’re happy to share your tale!