Case Study

Hannah's Journey to Success with SIMIAN Roof Slate & Tiling Apprenticeship

A former nursery nurse, Hannah took a leap of faith in 2023 when she joined Salix Homes to pursue an apprenticeship in roof slating and tiling.

When you think of roofing, you might picture a traditional male-dominated industry, with hard hats and ladders. But Hannah’s story challenges that stereotype. A former nursery nurse, Hannah took a leap of faith in 2023 when she joined Salix Homes to pursue an apprenticeship in roof slate and tiling. It wasn’t just about learning a new trade—it was about embracing the challenge, gaining hands-on skills, and carving a path in an industry she’d always admired.

In her previous role as a nursery nurse, Hannah started to feel that it wasn’t the right fit for her long-term. Hannah realised she craved a career that would involve more outdoor work, physical activity, and real-world challenges. She wanted to work with her hands and be outside, not just in the classroom or indoors.

“I wanted something more active,” says Hannah. “I wanted a job that challenged me physically and mentally, and that would let me be outdoors, where I thrive.”

She decided to pursue an apprenticeship in roof slating and tiling. Her decision was made easier when Salix Homes, offered her the opportunity to join their apprenticeship program, with the promise of comprehensive training and support.

Roofing was a natural choice for Hannah—she was drawn to the idea of a job that involved tangible, hands-on work. She also recognised the value of learning the “right way” to do things through an apprenticeship. After years in a job where safety and proper procedures were crucial, she understood how important it was to work with experts to learn best practices.

There was also the challenge of being a woman in an industry that has historically been male dominated. However, Hannah is unbothered by this aspect of her work environment. She gets along well with her male colleagues and actually prefers working alongside them.

“I don’t really think about it being a male-dominated industry. I get along with the lads really well, and honestly, I prefer working alongside males,” she says with a smile. “We all support each other, and it’s just a great team dynamic.”

Over time, Hannah has become more confident in her abilities. From assisting with roof inspections to replacing slates and tiles, she is gradually taking on more complex tasks and contributing to projects in a meaningful way. Her hard work and dedication have paid off, and she has developed a deep understanding of roofing techniques, materials, and safety protocols.

One of Hannah’s biggest achievements so far has been her ability to learn the fundamentals behind the roofing trade – they how and why things have to be a certain way. Alongside this, Hannah is also slowly gaining confidence with setting out and formulas as well as mortar works.

Hannah’s journey isn’t just about building a career for herself; it’s about paving the way for more women to join the roofing industry. As a woman in a male-dominated field, Hannah is determined to break down barriers and encourage other women to follow in her footsteps.

“My advice for women is to go and see if you enjoy it, you can do anything you put your mind to and to not care about what others think as you can complete any job just the same as anyone else.”

Reflecting on her experience so far, Hannah has valuable advice for anyone considering an apprenticeship in a trade like roofing:

“I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship as it’s great to be hands-on and learn the correct knowledge. I have also gained confidence in being able to take the lead on jobs.”

With the support of Salix Homes, SIMIAN and her own drive to succeed, Hannah is building a successful career in roofing.