We were delighted to welcome Xena from Total Cladding to our Triflex academy recently. Sadly it’s not often we have female trainees in attendance, and it’s no surprise when only 16% of people employed in the construction industry are women.

Xena explained to us how she moved into the roofing world. “My brother Keane was already in the Industry. What started off as a sibling challenge has quickly become a career choice. When I saw what his job involved, I thought I can do that! I was in an office role and fed up with being indoors and the same old tasks. Joining Total Cladding I’ve now got a job I love, and enjoy the varied challenges of the role.”

It has been estimated that the number of women in craft and trade occupations are even lower (as low as 1%) so we are delighted to help increase Xena’s specialism further. Both Xena and her brother are now Triflex trained to a high standard and assessed as ready to install the cold liquid applied systems.

Tony Mills, Sales Director, Triflex (UK) Ltd, commented “We wish Xena every success and are delighted to be a part of her career progression. We very much hope that Xena is starting a trend, and more females enter the roofing profession. The Triflex academy supports our national network of Triflex Authorised Contracting partners to deliver the highest standards of installation, and all Total Cladding trainees passed with flying colours.”

Matt Keightley, Director of Total Cladding, Grimsby, added "We like to think we provide an environment to nurture talent, whatever gender. As established Triflex Authorised Contractors we ensure all our employees are trained and competent in the systems. Xena has fitted well into the team and we would encourage any women considering joining the industry to explore it further."