The number of young women choosing to train as an electrician north of the order has doubled over the past decade, according to new figures.
Ahead of International Women’s Day next week, trade association Select said female apprentices still account for only about 2% of learners, but the latest data showed an upward trend that would help fill skills shortages.
Sharon Miller, managing director designate at Select, said: “Many women who have completed the Modern Apprenticeship in Electrical Installation have gone on to build rewarding careers across the industry, not only as working electricians but in roles such as managers, business owners and academia.
“Attracting and retaining more women to our sector is vital to addressing the current skills gap. The electrotechnical sector is a haven for those seeking a well paid, AI-proof role which also supports the drive to net zero.”
She added: “Even though the numbers are still relatively low compared to male apprentices, it is heartening to see so many women coming to the fore in Scotland and making a positive impact in what has traditionally been seen as a male-dominated industry.
“Hopefully the welcome growth in female apprentices will continue for years to come and more young women will realise the potential of the electrotechnical sector as a truly rewarding career path.”
The association highlighted the recent success of 22-year-old Ellis Stevenson, who is employed by Campbell & McHardy in Elgin and was the first female winner of its SkillELECTRIC competition in December.
Catherine Gillon, director of employment affairs at Select, said: “Ellis is a shining example of a woman rising to the top in her chosen career path and success stories like hers prove just how far we have come as a nation when it comes to encouraging and nurturing young female talent.
“Although it may be seen as a difficult environment for a female employee, we find that employers are very open to taking on young women and supporting them through what can be an extremely demanding training schedule.”
Jenny Petrie, director of finance at Select and association secretary, added: “The upward trend in young women choosing our sector as a preferred lifestyle option illustrates the growing recognition not only of the substantial rewards on offer but also of the social contribution electricians make as the country moves towards the electrification of society.”
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