Jess’s journey is a fantastic example of how the right opportunity, at the right time, can completely change someone’s life.
Jess joined Herefordshire College as an adult learner in September 2024, bringing with her seven years of experience working in a law firm. During that time, she completed her Level 4 and 5 qualifications in Law and worked as a Legal Administrator and Paralegal within a busy probate team. While she gained invaluable professional skills, Jess always knew that she wanted to be doing something more hands-on.
“I always wanted to do something more practical,” Jess explains. “But at the time, apprenticeships weren’t really an option for me. I was living independently, managing my own finances, and the opportunities, especially for women in trades, were very limited.”
It wasn’t until the age of 26 that everything aligned. A viable apprenticeship, better wages, and the chance to finally pursue a career she was passionate about. Today, Jess is training in plumbing and gas, and it’s definitely where she belongs!
“Now I’m @PlumbingJess, I don’t ever see myself turning back.”
Jess thrives on the varied structure of her course at Herefordshire College. Each week brings something new, keeping her motivated and constantly learning.
“It’s really informative and fast-paced, which I love. You’re not stuck on the same thing for weeks. What I learn in college is immediately transferable to my Monday–Thursday work on site, which makes such a difference.”
Her background in law has proven to be a powerful asset. The confidence she developed working with clients, managing paperwork and handling finances now supports her day-to-day work in the trade.
“I wouldn’t change my path. The skills I learned are invaluable. I can talk to people confidently, manage the paperwork, and understand the financial side of jobs. I just wish I were able to pursue this sooner, because I enjoy it so much.”
Jess’s Social Media Journey
What started as a simple Instagram diary has grown into a powerful platform. Jess began documenting her apprenticeship from day one, sharing the realities of college life, learning on the tools, and figuring things out as she went.
“I realised very quickly there weren’t many women showing the journey from the very start. People want to see the learning, the mistakes, the progress, someone they can relate to.”
Her honest, accessible content struck a chord. Jess now has a strong social media following, with people regularly reaching out for advice and inspiration. Through her platform, she champions apprenticeships, challenges outdated stereotypes, and shows that trades require skill, intelligence and dedication.
“There’s this myth that apprenticeships aren’t academic, that just isn’t true. I was very academic at school, and parts of my Gas Engineering course are really challenging.”
Jess’s advocacy hasn’t gone unnoticed. In an extraordinary turn of events, her social media presence led to an invitation to Downing Street, not just once, but twice, and with another visit already in the diary.
“I got an email on a Thursday evening saying they’d like to invite me to Downing Street. I honestly thought it might be a scam!” she laughs.
Jess went on to have a one-to-one conversation with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, sharing her experiences as an apprentice and discussing the importance of funding, accessibility, and changing perceptions around vocational education.
“He was being told we’d run out of time, but he wanted to keep talking. It reassured me that he genuinely cares about apprenticeships and why these policies matter.”
Sir Keir encouraged Jess, and others like her, to continue using their voices, visiting schools and colleges, and speaking to young people as early as 14 or 15, when they’re first considering their options.
“That’s where I want to make my impact, helping people see what’s possible.”
Alongside her studies, Jess works with major brands across the trade industry, including power tool manufacturers and suppliers. She was recently invited to speak at Plumb Centre’s annual conference, addressing an audience of over 800 people.
“I wouldn’t say I was made for public speaking,” she admits. “I practised a lot. But it shows how much my confidence has grown that I could get on stage and do it.”
That confidence is one of the biggest changes Jess has experienced since starting her apprenticeship.
“Coming back to college as an adult learner and being the only female apprentice on the course was daunting. But the rapport I’ve built here has made everything so much easier. My confidence has gone through the roof.”
Life at Herefordshire College
Jess chose Herefordshire College initially for its location, but the facilities, particularly the new Low Carbon Technology Training Centre at Holme Lacy, quickly confirmed she’d made the right decision.
“The Low Carbon Centre is brand new, with heat pumps, cylinders and full ranges of equipment. You just don’t get that everywhere. Seeing external professionals coming into train there shows how good it is.”
Jess recently completed a heat pump technology course at the centre and is already promoting it through her social platforms, encouraging others in the trade to upskill in renewable technologies.
“It’s 100% the direction the industry is heading, and I want to be part of that.”
For Jess, the people at Herefordshire College have made all the difference.
“The tutors are amazing. Everyone is so friendly and supportive. If you show willingness, they’ll help you as much as you want.”
She speaks particularly highly of Tim and Ian, who have supported her throughout her journey.
“Tim genuinely takes an interest in what we’re doing, even when we’re not in college. He’s proud of us and wants to see us succeed. We notice that, and it means a lot to each of us.”
Looking Ahead
With exams approaching and her apprenticeship nearing completion, Jess is busier than ever, but her ambitions are still evolving.
She plans to deepen her expertise in low-temperature design, heat pumps and renewables, expand into breakdown and diagnostic work, and continue developing her social media platform.
“I’m like a sponge at the moment. I want to make sure I’ve taken everything I possibly can from my time here.”
Jess already knows she’ll be back.
“I wouldn’t hesitate to return for external courses once I’m qualified. The support here is incredible.”
Jess’s advice to future students considering an apprenticeship is to, “Do your research. Use social media positively to see what the day-to-day really looks like. Speak to people, contact the College, attend open days, and if you can, have a go. Be brave, be bold, and ask for help. People will give it.”
Jess isn’t just building a career using her course at Herefordshire College, she is helping to reshape perceptions, open doors, and inspire the next generation.
Find out more about Jess’s Apprenticeship: HERE
