NAW2025: My Career as a Woman in the Painting and Decorating Industry

13 February 2025

In honour of National Apprenticeship Week 2025, we caught up with the brilliant Jane Potter to find out more about her journey from apprentice to Branch Manager. We speak to Jane about her experience as a woman in the painting and decorating industry and how things have changed for the young women beginning their careers today.

Joining us as an apprentice 33 years ago, Jane has worked her way up to become one of our valued Branch Managers. She now helps to support and train the next generation of apprentices beginning their careers with Bagnalls. She has also just been shortlisted for Mentor of The Year by The Apprenticeship Guide Awards 2025!

What is it like being a woman in the painting and decorating industry today and how does this compare to your apprentice experience?

Our industry feels much more inclusive today! As an apprentice, it was definitely challenging stepping into a male-dominated space. At times, I had to work harder to prove myself and earn the same level of respect as my male colleagues. However, that experience played a role in shaping me into who I am today, building my resilience, confidence and determination.

Today, I notice a shift in attitudes and greater acceptance of women in the industry, with a greater focus on skill than gender. I think it’s crucial to have visible role models and mentors who can show others what’s possible and support them along the way.

I feel incredibly proud of what I’ve achieved in a male-dominated industry. My experience has shown me that painting and decorating isn’t just a job—it’s a craft and a career that offers incredible levels of opportunity. I want young women to know that this is a viable and rewarding career path.

How does Bagnalls support female apprentices joining the company?

Bagnalls has been incredibly supportive in fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment, actively promoting diversity and ensuring everyone, regardless of gender, has equal opportunities.

Bagnalls actively celebrates the achievements of women in the business, helping to inspire the next generation. Our apprentices are paired with experienced mentors who guide them through their early career steps. This commitment to continuous training and professional development ensures that all apprentices, regardless of gender, have access to the tools and resources they need to thrive.

Why is it so important to encourage more young women to break into the industry?

Encouraging more young women to join our industry is vital for fostering diversity. When more women enter the field, it creates a more inclusive workforce that reflects the diversity of society and brings fresh perspectives.

By promoting the stories of successful women in the field, we can show that painting and decorating is not just a career for men—it’s a trade where women can thrive, innovate and build lasting careers.

Plus, having a diverse workforce benefits everyone! Women often bring different approaches when it comes to problem-solving, elevating the quality of work and improving collaboration on projects.

Which systems are in place today that you believe would have made your experience easier?

Initiatives such as mentoring programs help to create a sense of belonging and confidence, which is essential for young women starting out. The availability of structured training programmes tailored to individual needs has also improved, as has access to our Bagnalls Training Academy, which helps with skill development.

Additionally, policies around workplace equality and harassment are stronger and more enforced today, which helps to create a safer and more inclusive environment for everyone.

Finally, better communication and technology offer a streamlined learning process. Today’s tools – such as online resources, apps and forums – mean apprentices have unlimited access to information and peer support, making it easier to navigate challenges.

Are there any barriers that you had to contend with that young women today don’t face?

One of the biggest barriers I faced was the lack of representation and visibility, making it harder to envision a long-term career. Young women today have the benefit of seeing more women in the trade, thanks to increased awareness and the active promotion of gender diversity.

Another challenge I faced was overcoming stereotypes and preconceived notions about women’s abilities in physical trades. Early on, I often felt like I had to work twice as hard to prove myself capable. Nowadays, there’s a stronger emphasis on equality, making it easier for young women to feel accepted and respected.

When I started out, facilities like changing rooms and PPE specifically designed for women were rare, but now they’re more common, ensuring everyone has the tools they need to succeed.

Attitudes toward harassment and workplace safety have also shifted significantly. Stronger policies, clearer reporting procedures and a zero-tolerance approach to inappropriate behaviour give young women entering the industry today greater protection and support.

While there are still barriers to overcome, the progress made in these areas has created a more inclusive and welcoming industry for female apprentices.

Are there any new barriers that today’s female apprentices must deal with that were not an issue for you?

I believe young women today face a great deal of increased scrutiny and pressure, brought about by social media. While it can be a fantastic platform for showcasing skills and connecting with others in the industry, it can also expose individuals to criticism, negativity or unrealistic comparisons.

For some young women, this added visibility may bring about anxiety or a sense of needing to ‘prove’ themselves in a highly public way, which wasn’t a factor during my apprenticeship.

The expectation to balance work-life commitments, particularly for women with caregiving responsibilities, is also becoming more challenging in today’s fast-paced work environments, especially as apprenticeships demand significant time and energy. It’s important that we continue to support young women in the industry.

Why would you recommend a Bagnalls apprenticeship to young women today?

A Bagnalls apprenticeship offers so much more than just training in painting and decorating. It provides a pathway to build a rewarding career with opportunities for growth and development in a supportive environment.

Bagnalls truly values its apprentices, investing in its people through structured training programs, mentorship and ongoing development, helping to build both skills and confidence. The company listens, adapts and provides the necessary support to help everyone thrive. For young women looking to make their mark in the industry, there’s no better place to start!

What is your favourite thing about being a woman in the painting and decorating industry?

The opportunity to challenge stereotypes and show that skill, creativity and professionalism are not defined by gender. I take pride in proving that women can excel in this trade and contribute just as much, if not more, to the quality and innovation of the work we deliver.

Working in this industry as a woman has given me the opportunity to mentor and inspire others, particularly young women considering entering the trade. I enjoy being a role model and helping to pave the way for the next generation of female decorators. It’s a privilege to be part of that change.

How would you like to use your position of professional authority to encourage the next generation of young female talent?

I see my position of authority as an opportunity to lead by example and show that success in this industry is achievable for everyone, regardless of gender.

By actively mentoring and supporting young women, I want to create an environment where they feel confident, valued and inspired to excel in their careers.

One way I aim to do this is by being approachable and open, making sure apprentices and team members know they can come to me for guidance or advice. I want to help break down any barriers they might face, whether it’s offering practical support, helping them develop their skills or advocating for their talents in the workplace.

My goal is to ensure that our industry becomes a space where talent, not gender, defines success.