From corporate life to a career she loves: Charlie finds her place in landscaping

After completing a business degree and beginning her working life in the corporate world, Charlie Timms realised she was looking for something a little bit different.

“I felt like I needed to be working outdoors and using my hands,” Charlie said. “I wanted to be able to see the finished product and a tangible outcome from my work.”

Charlie already knew she enjoyed practical work, but committing to a landscaping apprenticeship represented a significant change of direction. At 32, she wondered whether she would be able to manage the physical demands of the work and find her place in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

“I remember talking to my parents about it and I thought ‘you know what, I’m just going to give it a crack’,” she said. “I definitely considered that it might be hard, but I realised this is what I really want to do.”

Once Charlie had made her mind up, everything happened really quickly. With support from Mas National (part of the IntoWork Group), she was signed up and into her training within just a few days.

“I love going to work. I live for landscaping. Every day is a new challenge,” Charlie said. “I’m exercising all day and spending time outdoors. I enjoy working with people who are happy to have a chat as we all work towards the same end goal.”

Charlie has also found the Mas mentoring service (MAPSS) a useful support. While still in the early stages of her apprenticeship, she said it’s reassuring to know that extra support is available.

“It’s nice to know the service is there, should you get stuck or need a little guidance. It’s also good to know it’s not just for your apprenticeship; it’s there for life stuff as well.”

While stepping onto the worksite was initially confronting, it didn’t take long for Charlie to become comfortable in the environment. She also drew confidence from seeing other women build careers in the trades.

“When you see other women working in trades, it is empowering. It gives me the belief that I can do it myself, because it’s not that uncommon,” she said. “If you treat the guys with respect, they treat you with respect. If you put in the work, pull your weight and do everything to the best of your ability, people can see that.”

Alongside the physical work, Charlie is enjoying the opportunity to learn new skills and gain a deeper understanding of how each project comes together.

“When I was younger, my stepdad taught me how to build things because he knew I was interested in different tools. I now have the opportunity to learn how to use them properly in a work environment,” she said. “I’ve realised you can build or create almost anything, and that’s really exciting.”

Although becoming fully qualified remains the ultimate goal, Charlie is determined not to rush the experience.

“Every day is a step closer to being qualified, but I also want to be mindful of the process,” she said. “Even being on site and around people who are qualified is a great experience. I want to make sure I slow down and enjoy it.”