Meet the Member – Lucy Mawer

Why did you choose a career in this industry?

I went into the industry because it offers a practical, skilled career that plays a crucial role in protecting public health and safety. This motivation was strengthened during my World Plumbing Council (WPC) United Association Instructor Training Program Scholarship, where the global significance of plumbing in safeguarding health, hygiene, and wellbeing was clearly demonstrated. The message ‘The Plumber Protects the Health of the Nation’ reinforced my belief that plumbing is a vital profession with a meaningful, lasting social impact.

How did you get into the industry?

I entered the industry in 2003. At the outset, I faced several barriers, including being a female in a male-dominated industry. I persevered and was able to demonstrate that equality in capability, alongside diverse skill sets and strong critical-thinking abilities, brings significant value to the industry. This work-based route enabled me to develop practical competence alongside formal training.

What was your first job and where?

My first role in the plumbing industry was with a local plumbing company where I developed core installation, maintenance, and problem-solving skills that formed the foundation of my career. I worked on many domestic plumbing and heating systems and had the fantastic experience of working in Sandringham House in Norfolk completing maintenance tasks.

Tell us about your current role.

I am head of plumbing and electrical installations at University Academy Holbeach. My role includes curriculum leadership, lecturing, workplace assessment, internal quality assurance, apprenticeship coordination, and employer engagement.

Why did you become a member and what do you get from it?

I joined the CIPHE while completing my apprenticeship through a special offer to learners from City and Guilds in 2005, and achieved Master Plumber status in 2019. I became a member to demonstrate professional competence, uphold standards, and support lifelong learning. As an educator and industry advocate, CIPHE membership also enables me to access valuable resources, professional networks, and CPD opportunities, which directly support my teaching, assessment, and quality assurance roles.

Tell us how you feel about the industry...

Plumbing and heating offers excellent career opportunities, job security, and clear progression pathways across a wide range of roles, including installation, maintenance, design, and education. It is a modern and continually evolving profession with an increasing focus on sustainability, innovation, and environmental responsibility. This combination of social importance, technical challenge, and ongoing development makes it a highly rewarding career.

Tell us more about the United Association Instructor Training Program Scholarship 2024.

As a proud recipient of the 2024 WPC United Association Instructor Training Program Scholarship, I had the privilege of participating in one of the most enriching professional development experiences of my career. I was exposed to cutting-edge plumbing technologies and training tools. The programme provided valuable insight into sustainable plumbing practices and environmentally responsible installations. Specialised sessions on high-rise and healthcare facility systems further deepened my understanding of complex plumbing applications.

Equally impactful were the sessions on leadership and mentorship, which emphasised the importance of professional pride, ethical practice, and lifelong learning in the skilled trades.

Overall, the programme has been a transformative journey — one that has equipped me with the skills, vision, and inspiration to elevate plumbing education and industry standards in my home country.