Tutor Jess Rennie’s journey into carpentry

A tutor at Coleg Sir Gâr says that if you enjoy task diversity and problem solving then working in carpentry might be a good career option. 

Jess Rennie spent years working in painting and decorating as she’s always loved interior design and architecture but during those years, she found that customers were often asking her for extra jobs such as making shelves and architraves. 

Aged 27, she decided it was worth returning to the college to learn these skills professionally and she spent three years at Ammanford campus gaining her additional carpentry qualifications.

“If you enjoy problem solving and want a diverse career where not every day is the same, carpentry might be a good choice for you. I wish I’d have done it straight after school.” Carpentry Tutor, Jess Rennie

During her final year, the country was in lockdown and it was difficult to operate in that environment but she still managed to complete her qualification and get some experience onsite to complete her timber frame mandatory roofing module.  She stayed with that company for a year and then went back into running her own business. 

Jess now teaches second year apprentices, a level two foundation group and a class for upskilling where she is enjoying helping others get on the right path. “If you enjoy problem solving and want a diverse career where not every day is the same, carpentry might be a good choice for you,” she said.  “I wish I’d have done it straight after school. Don’t follow your friends because everyone goes on their own path anyway, choose to go somewhere where there are like-minded people.”

Outside of work, Jess enjoys interiors as well as gardening and uses her carpentry and carving skills to make garden items and enjoys using green wood and natural items.

Sustainability is also something that Jess wants to draw more attention to within her classes. “I think it’s important for students to know where wood comes from and to take their time with their work as less mistakes equals less waste,” she said. “I want students to find their strength within their field and learn from enjoyment. Sometimes they wonder why we teach them manual tool skills but we’re just trying to equip them with skills that allow them to do a job without power tools should they need them.”

When asked about being a woman working in construction, Jess added: “I came into the industry aged 27, so I could generally hold my own, but I can honestly say that I’ve never had any issues onsite or anywhere being a woman in the industry and I have always been welcomed; in fact, most people are keen to help you and see you succeed.”