Meet our Midlands regional heat winner

Tayla Wileman from Burton & South Derbyshire College won the Midlands regional heat of the HIP UK Heating Apprentice of the Year competition, which took place at Stephenson College on Tuesday 14th February.

Apprentices from 12 colleges took part in the fifth of seven regional heats, which are being held across the country between January and March.

We caught up with Tayla straight after it was announced that she was the winner and found out what the worst thing about being a female plumber is!

How did you find the regional heat?

I took part in the competition last year and I went into this one a lot more confidently but the actual task was harder this year.

What was the most difficult part of today’s competition?

 Seeing everyone turn up. Last year it didn’t feel like there were so many people!

Are you looking forward to the Final?

Yeah [big grin].

What attracted you to a career in the plumbing and heating industry?

 I wanted to do something practical at school and there was only construction or cooking available. I found I was best at plumbing.

Where are you doing your apprenticeship and what will your employer think of your success so far in the competition?

In Coalville at CV Lane & Son. I hope he’ll be very pleased because I am! I know he’ll be glad for me.

How did you get an apprenticeship?

I started as a full-time Level 2 and I sent out loads of CVs and the company I’m now with got back in touch with me, so I then switched to an apprenticeship.

What do you dislike the most about the plumbing and heating industry?

My hair gets messy.

What did you have for breakfast?

Weetabix.

What’s your favourite song at the moment?

Anything by Ed Sheeran.

What’s your favourite TV show?

Friends.


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