Zakriya Saleem

Zakriya Saleem is training to become a plumber.

Trades World spoke to Zakriya to find out more about his life, changes, and future ambitions in the trades.

What did motivate you to pursue a career in the trades?  

I was working in the building trades before…and I wanted to do the plumbing training because my friend is a plumber and he really enjoys his work, so I thought to do it myself.

So, how is it going for you?

This is my second week of practical training and I am really enjoying the course.

What qualities does someone need to have in order to be a good plumber? 

You have to be hard-working, revise regularly and have strong self-motivation.

What are the things you have been doing in centre?

We have been doing copper bending, soldering, learning how to work with the different tools in the trades and many other things.

How did you find the balance between the practical and the theoretical part of the course?    

I really enjoy the practical training of the course. If I am struggling with anything the tutors are always by my side happy to help me with everything.

What do you think about the tutors in centre?

The tutors are helping you out all the time. They are great.

What is your plan after you finish your course and become fully qualified plumber?

My plan is to specialise in the gas industry, so I am a fully qualified professional. I would like to work for someone else for couple of years and after that set up my own business.

What advice would you give to those considering a career in the trades?

I would say that the course is really well-structured and it all makes sense when you come to do your practical training in centre.