What did you see yourself doing for a job when you were younger? 

Originally, I wanted to become a zookeeper because I wanted a pet monkey but my mum wouldn’t let me have one! 

When I was 14, I completed three weeks of work experience at Yorkshire Water, where most of my time was spent in the labs, which I enjoyed as I was given a range of responsibilities rather than simply shadowing colleagues. I was also given the opportunity to visit different Yorkshire Water sites and customer properties. It was this experience that made me want to pursue this career path.  

Can you outline your current role with Avove and your key responsibilities? 

I am a Water Quality and Control Officer working on the Vyrnwy Aqueduct Modernisation Program and my role was created especially for this major project. 

My responsibilities include ensuring compliance across our sites, ensuring all operatives are following water hygiene regulations and preventing any contamination of water whilst working on the project. I’m responsible for quality control of the pipe that are used to ensure they are fit for purpose. I also ensure our operative’s training is up to date and deliver some of our ‘Toolbox Talks’. During my first year with Avove, I designed and implemented a Water Quality Audit which I carry out on a monthly basis for this project, but it is also used by United Utilities and their contractors on other projects.  

What do you enjoy most about your role?

I enjoy being out on site and interacting with the operatives, I like that my hours are flexible depending on where I need to be to complete my responsibilities. I am trusted to manage my own time and workload which is great. I have great support from my colleagues and respected for what I do.  

My role was created specifically for the Vyrnwy modernisation project, and I am currently the only person within Avove that has this responsibility. This has allowed me to have a significant input into this job using my skills, knowledge and experience gained within my career so far. 

What do you like about Avove as a company? 

Avove are flexible with my working hours; they have accommodated my needs and been very supportive. They acknowledge the good work that people do, especially if someone has gone the extra mile. This support and encouragement creates a good working environment within Avove, as you feel appreciated for what you’re doing and that your effort isn’t taken for granted. 

What has been the highlight of your career with Avove, so far? 

I’m enjoying working on the Vyrnwy Aqueduct Modernisation Program – it’s a huge project and I enjoy seeing how the sites are progressing/changing each week. This is my first role within operations, and I am finding it very interesting seeing what goes on ’behind the scenes’ of the water industry.  

What advice would you give to someone looking to et into your line of work? 

Follow your dream, don’t give up and stay positive. Doors will open when the right opportunity is there for you although you may have to wait for it, but in the meantime gain as much knowledge and experience as you can. Try to get in touch with people in a similar role, to gain career-specific information, as this will help you to decide if this is the right career path for you as well as showing that you really are interested in this role during job interviews.