Celebrating women across construction: Daniella at TAD Builders
At CCTAL, we believe the construction industry is strongest when opportunities are open to everyone. Recognising and supporting women in construction is an important part of that, helping to ensure that women know these career pathways exist, feel welcome within them, and are supported to build long term careers across the sector. Our members share this commitment within their own businesses, creating environments where women can develop their skills, explore different roles, and grow with confidence.
One example of this can be seen through the experience of Daniella at TAD Builders, whose journey into the industry began through the Cyfle Building Skills Shared Apprenticeship Scheme.
In September 2021, Daniella took a significant step towards a career in construction by joining the Shared Apprenticeship Scheme, specialising in carpentry.
At CCTAL, we champion the Shared Apprenticeship Scheme as it gives apprentices the opportunity to work with a variety of construction companies and experience different environments within the industry. This allows them to develop well rounded skills, explore opportunities within their trade, and gain valuable hands on experience that helps prepare them for a successful career in construction.
Daniella, who is from Llandeilo, was drawn to the construction industry because of its wide range of opportunities – she admired how individuals can climb the construction career ladder through hard work and practical work experience.
Throughout her apprenticeship Daniella focused on carpentry, where she trained at Ammanford Campus with Coleg Sir Gar, learning key techniques in the field; from framing to finishing, completing levels 1 to 3.
With the help and support of Cyfle Building Skills, Daniella secured a placement at TAD Builders Ltd, a member of CCTAL, and a highly respected and successful construction company based in South and West Wales.
Daniella’s apprenticeship with TAD Builders Ltd provided her with invaluable hands-on experience and consistency in her training. Working closely with the team throughout her placement, she was able to build confidence and hone her skills, preparing herself for a successful career in carpentry.
Over the last few years, Daniella has worked with TAD Builders Ltd on several notable projects, including Pentre Ifan in Newport for the Urdd – Wales’ largest youth organisation, as well as the Cae Gar development in Llanelli and Ty-Mawr in Pontardawe. She credits her mentors and colleagues at both TAD Builders Ltd and Cyfle Building Skills for providing unwavering support and guidance whenever she needed it.
Reflecting on her time in the Shared Apprenticeship Scheme, Daniella encourages others to “embrace new challenges” and credits the team at TAD Builders Ltd for allowing her to explore various aspects of carpentry, which helped her develop a well-rounded skill set.
Unlike traditional apprenticeships that often focus on one area, the scheme gave her the opportunity to gain broader experience and build confidence across multiple areas of her trade – making for a very bright future for Daniella!
Since completing her apprenticeship, Daniella has taken on exciting new roles, including representing TAD Builders Ltd in talks at local colleges! She’s shared her journey with younger students, encouraging them to pursue careers in construction and helping to raise awareness of the opportunities available to women in the industry. This chance to inspire others has been a highly “rewarding part of her journey.”
After qualifying as a Carpenter, Daniella continued to work for TAD Builders Ltd. After a year, the company presented her with the opportunity to enroll on Cyfle’s Technical Shared Apprenticeship Scheme, which she is now pursuing. Progressing through the scheme, Daniella is currently working on and managing a project at Gelli Aur farm college. The project started in September 2024 and should be completed by March 2025!
Looking ahead, Daniella aims to grow in the construction field and is excited about moving into leadership roles. Daniella’s success is a testament to how construction can offer more options than people might realise, with endless learning and career opportunities to explore!