On this episode of The Heating and Plumbing Show with Andy Cam and Todd Glister, the hosts are joined by Connie Pawsey, an apprentice plumber with VitoEnergy Ltd. Connie’s story is one of determination, resilience, and excitement for the future of renewables in the heating and plumbing industry.
Breaking Into the Trade
Connie’s path into plumbing wasn’t straightforward. Despite excelling in her GCSEs, she was initially turned away from a local college, not for lack of ability, but because she was a girl!
Rather than being discouraged, she explored her options, eventually discovering a passion for heating engineering and renewable technologies like heat pumps and solar.
A simple LinkedIn post about her interest in the trade caught the attention of engineers who shared her dilemma, which led to an interview and apprenticeship opportunity with VitoEnergy.
Her enthusiasm and willingness to learn stood out so strongly that she was offered the role even though the company wasn’t actively recruiting apprentices at the time.
Training for a Renewable Future
Connie is part of one of the first dedicated renewables-focused courses in the UK, where she is the youngest student among a group of apprentices and engineers. She describes feeling like a “blank slate,” yet she’s thriving, learning everything from air source systems to solar thermal.
At VitoEnergy, she’s already gained hands-on experience with major projects, including the installation of solar thermal systems at Wimbledon Tennis Club.
Connie explains that while the technical side, like calculations and system design can be daunting at first, the combination of coursework and practical site work makes it all come together.
Challenges, Support, and Community
Being young and female in a traditionally male-dominated trade comes with its challenges. Connie admits she was initially nervous but says the support and camaraderie within her team have been invaluable. At Vito, she feels part of a family, with colleagues acting like mentors, big brothers, or even “work dads.”
She’s also learned the importance of resilience, especially when facing occasional disrespect in the wider trade. “You’ve got to give it back, it’s the only way to shut them up,” she says with a smile, showing the confidence she’s built on the job.
Why Renewables Matter
For Connie, the future is clear: renewables are the way forward. She acknowledges there are still misconceptions and a lack of public awareness around heat pumps and solar, but she believes that as training and promotion improve, uptake will accelerate.
Her ambition is to become highly skilled across all aspects of renewable heating from air and ground source systems to solar and battery storage.
Her passion is infectious. As Andy and Todd note during the podcast, it’s refreshing to hear someone so excited about the trade, especially at a time when the industry is in need of new energy and skilled workers.
Renewable Roles
Connie Pawsey represents the next generation of plumbing and heating professionals. One that’s enthusiastic, resilient, and committed to building a greener future. Her story is a reminder of the opportunities renewables offer, not just for the industry but for young people looking to make a difference.
