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Charlotte's Apprenticeship Journey to Assistant Manager in our Tool Hire Business

Charlotte joined the Travis Perkins Group with no previous experience in the industry but has since gained a promotion and is now Assistant Manager at our Tool Hire branch in Hemel Hempstead. 

Coming from the care sector, Charlotte said it was a really daunting move for her but nearly three years on she has really found her feet. 

Charlotte completed a Certificate in Tool Hire Apprenticeship in 2021 and even bagged herself the title 'Apprentice of the Year' at the Hire Awards of Excellence. This is just one of many Apprenticeships we offer at the Group, and it provided Charlotte with everything she needed to quickly get to grips with both her job responsibilities and the extensive range of products our customers can hire from drills, diggers and dump trucks to specialist lifting, powered access and power generation equipment. All of these are serviced to the highest standard and are available for delivery or collection.

We spoke to Charlotte to hear how she has found her time with the Group so far.

What made you decide to join the Tool Hire business?

“I wanted to try something out of my comfort zone. To my surprise and absolute delight, I seemed to excel right from the start.”

Within the Travis Perkins Group, we're keen to progress anyone who works hard. We'll give you the support you need to feel confident and we'll also do our best to give you the work/life balance you're looking for because we value our people and we want them to spend their time doing what they love. 

What were your first thoughts about making this career move to a new industry?

“I was nervous about making this career move and found it very daunting. I started working as a domiciliary care worker when I was 18 years old. 

I later went on to train care workers in everything from moving and handling to first aid and safeguarding - you name it, and I probably taught it. It was a huge career change for me, but I was very excited about the change.”

We have many people joining the business with experiences in different industries and job roles but here at Travis Perkins, we’ll equip you with everything you need to succeed in your new role.

Take Kim as another great example. She previously worked as a Barista with the same retail company for 15 years, and now she's thriving as a Customer Sales Assistant

What skills did you develop during your Apprenticeship?

“I can't even begin to sum up all the skills I gained during my Apprenticeship. 

Not only did I develop my workshop-based knowledge and product knowledge, but it also provided me with great customer service skills, and helped me to become more confident.” 

No matter what role you are in, you’ll be picking up new transferable skills that will help you throughout your career within the Travis Perkins Group. 

What was your favourite part of the Apprenticeship?

“The best part of my Apprenticeship was having the ability to network across the entire business.” 

One of the unique benefits of working within our Group is that you’ll have the freedom to explore other departments and teams to learn how they operate, and the work they are doing so you can expand your knowledge. 

In fact, we offer secondments where you experience a different area, location, or department of the business than where you usually work. 

Any advice for something thinking of doing an Apprenticeship?

“Do it! I am so glad that I had the opportunity to be on the course, and, given the chance, I would do an Apprenticeship again.” 

Apprenticeships are a great option at any point in your career. You can earn whilst you learn new skills, and work your way up the career ladder, and like Charlotte has found, it can help you to pivot smoothly into a career change. 

Why Travis Perkins?

“Travis Perkins is such a fantastic company to work for. I am so glad I took the leap and took a chance - it was the best decision I made. Not only has my career been progressing well, but I have also been part of several different campaigns and communities within the Group.” 

Our people are our strength, and we're proud to be on a journey to becoming a truly inclusive and diverse employer. As part of this, we have several colleague networks where our people are driving real positive change.

What has kept you working with the Group?

“The support I receive has been amazing. So many people have been so happy to help me and push me to develop myself, which is something I have never experienced before. I have built such a strong network already, and this support system has helped me to realise my potential.

I can't wait for what is next to come. I look forward to a very happy and long career with Travis Perkins!”

Explore Apprenticeship opportunities at Travis Perkins

Have you been inspired by Charlotte's story? Whether you are looking for a change, just starting out in your career, or want a new challenge, an Apprenticeship can give you everything you need to reach your full potential. 

Our varied programmes are designed to challenge you, whilst giving you the support you need to define your future career plans. Hear from our Apprentices to learn more and find out if it could be the right career move for you.

Are you ready to start your application? Browse our available Apprenticeships and become the next member of our Group.

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