Newly qualified gas engineer Olivia Scally is such an inspiration to other young women considering construction careers that she has become the face of Stoke-on-Trent College.

Olivia, who was awarded a first class apprenticeship, has been called a credit to employers Stoke-on-Trent City Council, where she works for the repairs and maintenance service.

She attends careers fairs, gives talks to students and offers advice if they’re considering an apprenticeship in the construction industry.

She has been filmed at work, is featured on Stoke-on-Trent College posters and vans to promote apprenticeships and Future Ready Skills courses and has been nominated for a string of awards.

Olivia was named Learner of the Year in 2025 by Stoke-on-Trent City Council. She was runner-up in Unitas Apprentice of the Year in 2024 and a finalist in the Screwfix Trade Apprentice Awards in 2025.

Outside of work she is currently using the skills that she has gained from her apprenticeship to renovate her new home. She ran the Race for Life in memory of her friend’s late mum and raised £240 for Cancer Research.

Olivia’s operational team leader and mentor said: “Olivia is very driven and passionate. She sets herself clear targets and goals and pushes herself to a very high standard to ensure that all tasks are completed safely.”

Olivia said: “Over the past three years of my apprenticeship I have learned so many new skills and created friendships for life. I was very nervous to change departments and follow my goals, as I know being a female in the trade isn’t the typical. I’m very grateful for my friends, family and colleagues who pushed me to make that jump, because I wouldn’t change my career for the world now.

“I enjoy every aspect of the job. No two days are the same from completing landlord gas safety records to remedials. It gives me a great sense of fulfilment knowing that completing the job or the conversation with tenants could make their lives that little bit easier.”

Olivia has been nominated in the Apprentice of the Year category of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.