Introducing SJD’s latest work experience student
We caught up with Nadine Hussain, SJD’s latest work experience student, to find out how she’s finding life on site.
Nadine is enrolled at Milton Keynes College and undertaking her level 2 electrical installations.
What drew you to a career as an electrician?
I’m from a family of electricians and I’m quite creative and enjoy doing art. I like doing things with my hands, and enjoy being neat, so it was a natural thing to go for.
How many women are there on your course?
I’m the only one among 20 or so boys but our teacher is a woman so I’m not exactly the only one. It was a bit strange at first but now I’m used to it, and the course is really fun.
What support have you had at SJD?
Everyone has been really helpful and explained everything to me. I’ve had some good advice from SJD’s site supervisor, Tasha who recommended that I just be myself.
What projects have you been to visit during your time at SJD?
I have seven days of work experience and so far, I’ve been to Lord Grey Academy and to Cranfield University.
At Lord Grey we were investigating why the fuses kept going in the Drama Department. It was quite complicated and a bit of a mystery, so by a process of elimination we went through all six rooms to find the fault.
At Cranfield we are fitting out containers for the students to use for their studies. I’ve been installing containment and cabling and wiring isolators.
I’m only doing low level work and nothing overhead at this stage for health and safety reasons.
What do you think about all of the health and safety processes?
I don’t really worry about getting any electric shocks because you always have to safely isolate the circuit you’re working on and test it to see if it’s properly switched off. And you’re not allowed to proceed with the task until you’ve safely isolated your circuit.
Thoughts so far?
It’s been pretty cold, so I’ve got my thermals on to keep warm.
It’s been interesting to see that there’s a mix of commercial and industrial work, so I’ve learnt how to adapt to each environment.
Do you think more females should enter the industry?
I think that females are put off because there aren’t a lot of role models to begin with. If girls can see more women electricians, it will inspire more to join and show that anyone can do it if they put their mind to it. I think it is a good career for people who like to be doing something physical and like to be precise with their work.
Where do you see yourself in the future?
I will complete my course in July this year then hope to get an apprenticeship which will take four years to complete.