Tell us a little about what you do before work:
The working day starts early, leaving the house at 06:00.
After my shower, I make myself a protein shake for breakfast, giving me a much-needed energy boost to start the day refreshed. I work with my dad, and together we take our dog, Lily, to my grandmothers for the day. We either head straight to one of our sites or, if needed, stop by a supplier to collect parts or consumables ordered the previous day.
Being based at our quarry in the Cotswolds, I can truly appreciate the changing seasons as the surrounding agricultural fields transform throughout the year. Seeing spring lambs in the fields lifts my spirits as we move out of winter and into longer, warmer days.
Do you have your own office, are you in-site or travelling?
My office for the day could be any one of our three operational sites. Our main workshop is at our quarry, located in the beautiful Cotswolds. If we aren’t required elsewhere, that’s where my working day begins.
The nature of the job often requires working outdoors in all weather conditions. If it’s particularly cold or wet, I make use of our heated rest area in the workshop.
You’ll often find me under the open bonnet of a machine, beneath a chassis, or at the control panel of one of our CNC machines, where architectural stone is produced.
What does your typical day involve?
Tasks can range from repairing a faulty wire to working on large quarry plant machinery. Our workload is prioritised to ensure production at any of our sites experiences minimal disruption.
As an apprentice plant mechanic, every day is a school day. I’ve been trained to operate the large mobile plant used in our quarry. Operating these machines to move them to and from the workshop gives me a good perspective on the challenges faced by full-time operators.
What is one thing that surprises you about your job?
I used to think fixing a machine was straightforward. Now I understand why my dad used to come home so tired—it’s a demanding but rewarding job.
I was never aware of things like risk assessments, health and safety regulations, and all that comes with them. Attending the CITB National Construction College at Bircham Newton, King’s Lynn, along with toolbox talks from my employer, helped me realise the legal responsibilities that both employees and employers carry.
Working on plant equipment that someone else must operate comes with a huge responsibility. You need to ensure the job is completed correctly and that the machine is safe to use when handed back.
When you were younger, what did you want to be?
I loved working with horses and even used to own one. My dream was to be an equine vet. When I was younger, someone once told me not to turn my passion into a job. Looking back, I wonder if that was good advice.
I’ve heard many stories of people turning their hobbies into careers, only for it to spoil their enjoyment. I still have a passion for horses, but I had to rehome my horse because I knew the commitment required for my apprenticeship.
One day, I hope to return to horse ownership and enjoy everything that comes with it.
What's something we might not know about you:
I’m tall and fortunate to have a figure that drew me into part-time modelling. It’s not something I ever truly wanted as a career, but I’m grateful for the opportunity. Even now, people tell me I should pursue it—but my heart lies elsewhere.
Most memorable moment at work:
The opportunity to go to the CITB training college and further my education was a highlight. It felt like such a privilege, and I never expected learning to be so exciting and enjoyable.
Since then, I’ve even been nominated by my tutor for the CPA Stars of the Future award.
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone considering a career in the stone industry?
To any woman thinking of entering the industry—especially quarrying—my advice is simple: remember that you are equal to everyone else. There’s no golden spoon just because you're female. You have to work hard and earn respect, and for me, that’s been the biggest reward.
I don’t mind getting dirty, and there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy being female and everything that comes with it. In some industries where traditional methods remain, there can be resistance to change—like the presence of women in the workplace—but the stone industry has been welcoming.
If you have a passion, follow it. Don’t be derailed by outdated mindsets. You should be judged on your work performance and your commitment.
Being a woman in this industry is cool. I’m proud to represent women in our workplace and to raise awareness for the industry—I just wish there were more of us.
