“Just go for it!” – A Q&A with Cara for International Women’s Day

The month of March celebrates International Women’s Day and National Careers Week. Both shine a spotlight on the variety of careers and opportunities available, as well as looking to inspire inclusion in the workplace.

Cara, Property Supervisor – Electrical, at Wolverhampton Homes is a shining example of what can be achieved, from starting with us an Apprentice Electrician, to now being one of our Property Supervisors. She is passionate about putting the customer at the heart of everything she does, and in a male dominated industry, is proud of her career so far in property services.

So Cara, tell us a bit about you and talk us through your career path so far.

I have an eight-year-old daughter who is my pride and joy. At the weekends, I like to do whatever makes her happy, including making dens out of blankets, going out on her bike, and watching movies – thrown in with a bit of DIY as I’ve just bought a new house. Since starting as an Apprentice at Wolverhampton Homes, over 13 years ago, I’m so grateful for the flexibility to be able to have a thriving career as a single Mom.

I always thought I wanted to be a Midwife and was studying to become one at college. However, when I was studying, I’d heard great things about the apprenticeship programme at Wolverhampton Homes and wanted to give it a go. I was accepted onto the programme and five years later, whilst learning and earning, I became a qualified Electrician and loved supporting customers in the community to stay safe at home.

Last year, I decided to go for a promotion and became the Property Supervisor. Between a colleague and me, we manage 15 Electricians and I’m proud of how far I’ve come. If you put your mind to it, I’ve realised anything is possible – even if you stand out a little for whatever reason – be confident in who you are.

What advice would you have for women looking to work in the industry?

Personally, I love working in the property services industry. There’s a great atmosphere here at Wolverhampton Homes and although this section is male dominated, it is changing, and everyone is so welcoming. I would encourage women in Wolverhampton Homes and beyond to never be afraid to take that next step – just go for it!

How do you find working at Wolverhampton Homes?

There’s a family feel to the organisation, many of us are local and we do everything we can to support the communities we call home. Respecting differences is one of our values and is embedded in everything we do. This is highlighted through our reduction in our gender pay gap, and our mentoring scheme which encourages colleagues to help and support others to be the best they can be. For instance, I’ve been supporting a female trade person myself as I feel it’s important that I give back, the way others have helped me throughout my career.

What career advice would you give to your younger self?