Sector Spotlight: Melanie Smith, Electrician

In the final entry of our Sector Spotlight on Engineering, we speak to Melanie Smith from R S Merriman Ltd, who works as an electrician. Merrimans are an electrical contractor based in Stromness who undertake a variety of works throughout the county across domestic, commercial and industrial facilities.

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--Can you describe a typical day in your role as an Electrician?
Every day is different which is one of my favourite things about the job! I can be at multiple different sites in one day and around lots of different people. Or if there’s a larger job on then I can be there for a few weeks. It really varies every day! 
 
--How did you end up in this role?
I stayed in school to do 6th year, purely because I didn't know what I wanted to do.... although I knew I didn't want to leave Orkney to go away to uni. Once I left school I worked various different jobs for a year trying to figure out what I wanted to do. I was advised to go on a work experience course through Orkney college which was great at getting me out to different industries to work. The college also helped with writing a CV and preparing for job interviews. I did work experience through the college with R S Merrimans and was asked to stay on for an extra couple of weeks. After my work experience I was offered an apprenticeship which is where my career begun, I couldn't say no to such a fantastic opportunity, especially being female in the industry. 
 
--What is the best thing about your job?
The best thing about my job has to be the variety and constant learning. There's always something new to learn and something new to take on. I also enjoy the social aspect, we have a great group of employees at Merrimans whom I all get on with and enjoy working beside them. 
 
--What is the worst thing about your job?
I actually can't think of many negatives! In the winter it can be hard to get out of bed early when it's dark and cold and rainy outside especially when you know you’re going to be out working in it all day! 
 
--What skills do you need to undertake your role?
One of the main skills I have had to learn is patience! You need a lot of patience and good communication skills as well as being able to work as part of a team and be a good listener. 
 
--What qualifications do you have?
I have my SCQF level 7 electrician certificate, as well as a couple of Highers I got in secondary school. 
 
--Would you recommend this job to young people, if so why?
I would definitely recommend this job to anyone who enjoys practical work and problem solving as we do a lot of that! As well as being out and about and enjoys communicating with people.

Visit R S Merriman Ltd on:
 
Website:  https://rsmerriman.co.uk/
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RSMerrimanLtd