TWO major Vale of Glamorgan council construction projects have offered a former care worker the opportunity to launch an exciting new career.

Annmarie Sayer spent 17 years working in care homes before deciding on a dramatic change of direction.

After learning of Econ Construction’s career changer programme, she attended a meeting at the Vale council’s civic offices to find out more.

Funded by the Construction Industry Training Board, the scheme aims to increase the number of women in trade roles as traditionally such positions have been overwhelmingly filled by men.

More than 200 women showed an interest in one of the 20 positions available and Ms Sayer was offered one of them.

She began by working with Morgan Sindall Construction on new school buildings at Whitmore High School before switching to the Pencoedtre High School site, which is being delivered by Bouygues UK.

MORE STORIES

Work begins on Barry Pencoedtre High School redevelopment

Building set to begin on a new Pencoedtre High School in Barry

Extensive redevelopment of Whitmore High School in Barry is set to begin

“I had been a carer for 17 years and really enjoyed it, but I wanted a change, a fresh challenge and a saw an advert for the Career Changers Programme on Facebook, she said.

“I wanted a career, not just a job so I went along to a meeting to find out more and never looked back.

“I really like working with the machines like the excavator and the dumper, but I’ve done all sorts of different jobs. I’ve helped put in steel to support foundations and moved drainage pipes.

“It’s really nice to see a project through from start to finish. I love it.

“I’ve had no negative comments from any of the fellas. Young and old, they’ve all been really supportive.

"They’ve all had time to explain things to me, which is good because I ask hundreds of questions.”

Ms Sayer also isn’t fazed by working outside, throwing herself into tasks whatever the conditions.

“The weather does not bother me,” she added. “I put thermals on if it’s cold and if it’s raining put a coat on.

“I just thought I’d give it a go. It was something I was interested in and you don’t know if you can do it unless you try.”