Case Study

Charlotte Farmery

Paving the Way for Women in Maintenance & Engineering

“It’s the best decision I’ve ever made in my life.”

Charlotte Farmery made history when she became the first-ever female Building Service Engineer apprentice at Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust. Not only was she the first female apprentice to join the trust’s estates team, but she also laid the foundation for greater gender diversity in the construction and facilities sector.

Charlotte joined the NHS trust in 2019 with a passion for fixing things and a curiosity about how they work. In a field still underrepresented by women, she quickly became a role model.

“I like fixing things, and I like finding out why things don’t work,” she says. “I won’t stop until I figure it out.”

Her apprenticeship, delivered by GLP Training, allowed her to earn while she learned, something she believes is a huge benefit for anyone considering a change in career or direction later in life.

“An apprenticeship is great because you get to learn and get paid at the same time. Even at my age, it was the best decision I ever made.”

Working in a busy mental health hospital brought unique challenges and responsibilities. She learned not only about tools, maintenance systems, and regulations, but also about risk management and patient safety. GLP Training’s support, combined with guidance from her managers and colleagues, helped her grow in confidence and become a “more thoughtful and confident engineer.

“You don’t realise how much you’ve learned until you look back and think – wow.”

With continued support from her tutors and colleagues, Charlotte progressed quickly, both academically and professionally. After completing her Property Maintenance apprenticeship, she enrolled onto a Building Services Engineering apprenticeship to take her technical skills to the next level.

Her dedication has not gone unnoticed: Charlotte has received several promotions during her time with the Trust and her ambition continues to grow.

“I just want to keep learning, keep progressing, and become the best I can possibly be.”

Now an established and respected member of the the Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust estates team, Charlotte is passionate about encouraging others, especially women, to consider a career in engineering and maintenance.

“You don’t need to know everything when you start. You just need the willingness to learn. Apprenticeships give you that space to grow.”

Key Highlights

First Female Property Maintenance Operative apprentice at Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
Progressed from Property Maintenance to Building Services Engineering apprenticeship
Promoted multiple times within her organisation
Strong advocate for women in construction and engineering

Inspired by Charlotte Farmery’s journey?

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Charlotte Farmery

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