Apprentice urges young people to consider career in carpentry

A young apprentice at Seamans Building says she was inspired to take up carpentry after helping her grandfather as a child.

Erin Keer, 20, joined the company in March 2022, having spent two years at Suffolk New College in Ipswich studying carpentry and joinery.

Erin Keer

Erin said she loves her job and would advise other young people to consider a career the sector.

“My grandfather was a builder when I was a child and I was always helping him out,” she said.

“When I was younger, I had originally wanted to become a photographer but later realised sitting at a computer for hours on end just wasn’t for me.

“I have always liked building stuff and helping my grandad. Then when I started doing carpentry, I couldn’t get enough of it.

“It’s how you can take a big load of timber and transform it into windows, cupboards, furniture, doors – I love the process from start to finish.”

Erin said despite being one of the only women in the carpentry workshop, she fits right in at Seamans.

“When I started at Seamans I felt part of the company straight away, I didn’t get treated any different because I am a young woman,” she said.

“I would say to women who are interested in carpentry or construction to just go for it.

“It’s a brilliant industry to work in and you learn new things every day.

“If you can get your foot in the door there’s a bright future ahead of you.”

Ben Whatling, Production Director at Seamans, said: “Erin is a hugely valued member of our team and has fitted in perfectly since she started with us in March.

“Her enthusiasm for her work is infectious and she’s always got a smile on her face.

“She is a great example to other women considering a career in construction as well as young people looking to take their first steps into the sector.”

Seamans Building are keen to support the next generation into a career in construction.

That’s why we work closely with local organisations to promote the industry to young people, and to make the sector easier for them to access.

See here for more on Seaman’s pledge to support young people into construction.

Photography credit: Simply C Photography