• Your name:           Karen Sparrow

• Age group:               36-45

• What is involved in training for your Role?

1.         Computer Skills

2.         Basic knowledge of Accounts

3.         Customer Service skills & reception

4.         Understanding of Polystyrene - the densities, how it’s manufactured, how it can be used in different types of applications etc

5.         Management skills

• What obstacles have you overcome on your path into and through the building industry?

Manufacturing industry of Polystyrene has been largely a man dominant area for many years so to be able to do more within the company other then office duties, you first have to gain respect and show an understanding of other things like how it’s manufactured.  I find that being good at what you do is not enough, one should be prepared to take on more and by doing so you are learning more. The more you are willing to learn the more opportunities will appear and with that comes the respect.

• Lessons Learned?

 1.         Customer is alright

2.         Stay strong

3.         Always know your stuff, don’t guess

4.         Never be afraid to ask questions

5.         Never stop learning

6.         be open to new ideas

• Why to you think it is important to help establish a name and better recognized opportunities for females in building?

Females have a lot to offer to the building industry in organizational skills, new ideas, being multi-skilled, new approaches to ideas and problems and a different point of view to things.

• What are your goals for the future?

 To expand my knowledge and skills in my field of expertise.  With the possibilities of maybe a Manager of a successive business.

• How do you effectively deal with your workplace culture?

 Deal with all work mates as equals or friends.Have respect and an understanding of all workmates.Take a hard line if needed but with respect.

• Has there been a role model you have looked to for inspiration?

 A role model for Customer Service would be Joan Nelson who showed me pride, strength and knowledge are golden keys to performing my role in Customer Service. A role model to improving myself or status would be Colleen Chipman; she came along at the time when I lost sight she showed me that woman can do anything if you set your mind to it and work hard, you can achieve these are things I know but forgot. Another part of inspiration is support from my partner and friends who believe in you even when you don’t or you lose sight.

• Karen's inspirational message: 

Aim high, stand strong and when you lose sight of your goal just remember that only you can achieve your goals.