After 20 years of dedicated service in law enforcement, Paula made the courageous decision to switch careers, trading her police badge for a toolbox. Her journey into the electrical trade is a powerful example of resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of meaningful work.
Paula’s interest in skilled trades grew over time, having picked up plumbing and joinery skills along the way. A spark was lit when she helped a friend with basic electrical work during a bathroom refit. “I found it fascinating. The problem-solving, the precision, the physical work. It just clicked,” she recalls.
Paula approached AB for volunteer experience, and it quickly became clear to the AB management team that Paula had a strong work ethic and transferable skills ideal for working in social housing.
David Batterton, AB Director, said: “AB were delighted to support Paula with work experience, training and work shadowing. This quickly turned into full time employment. Paula’s empathy and communication skills from her previous employment stood out particularly well when working with vulnerable tenants in sheltered accommodation and AB’s Communal Testing schemes for AB’s Electrical Compliance Team.”
Re-training in her 40s wasn’t without its challenges. “It was intimidating at first,” Paula admits, “but my life experience helped me stay calm under pressure and work well in a team.”
In a male-dominated industry, Paula has broken barriers and proven that skilled trades are for everyone.
Paula is currently working on a large LD1/LD2 Fire Detection contract for one of AB’s RSL Clients, a testament to her determination and growth.
Paula’s story is a reminder that it’s never too late to change direction. Whether in uniform or overalls, she continues to make a difference, showing others that with courage and commitment, new beginnings are always possible.