Emma Bundy is an apprentice assistant site manager at Vistry South West, which builds properties for Bovis Homes and Linden Homes.
The 21 year old is currently working at the company’s Bay View development in Northam and is pleased to have a short commute from her home in Barnstaple ?" where she lives with her mum and their dog, Cleo ?" as life hasn’t always been so kind.
International Women’s Day on 8th March provides the perfect opportunity to celebrate her achievements and strength.
Emma, who’s also a carer for her mother, commented: “I feel very lucky to finally be at this stage in my life as it’s been a real struggle. My mum and I were homeless for two years and I was desperate to turn things around but I had no idea what I wanted to do. I’d worked as a delivery driver, a maintenance manager at a holiday park and a painter and I was keen to do as many courses as possible ?" anything that opened doors for me!
“I undertook a plastering apprenticeship and achieved an NVQ level two qualification but it was challenging as I had to wake at 5am each morning to walk to the train station. One teacher, Grant Johnson, kindly told me about an eight week bricklaying course where I met Vistry’s CEO, Greg Fitzgerald ?" who started as an apprentice ?" and it really spurred me on. I was delighted when an apprenticeship opened up at Vistry and grabbed it with both hands!
“I now work on site in Northam and love the camaraderie, it’s a fantastic place to be. The team is great and I look forward to my commute now as I pick up our labourer every morning. I work on site for four days a week, earning and learning at the same time, and spend one day studying towards an NVQ level four qualification in site supervision and construction. The job is brilliant and I love the pride you feel in helping to create a quality home for customers - I’m so pleased I fell into this industry.”
Emma, who in her spare time enjoys running, walking, going to the gym and tinkering with her car, added: “In terms of career progression, I’m keen to keep earning qualifications and stay in the company, although one day it may be nice to work abroad.
“As a female, I have seen bias. I was once told by a teacher that I’d never do as much as a guy but that encouraged me to prove him wrong and I will continue to support other women to challenge these misconceptions. I’ve received lots of praise now I’m on site, which I wasn’t expecting, and it’s good to be in a safe, supportive environment.
“I always say: if you get out of bed and try, who knows what will happen! There are lots of opportunities out there, you just need to find them. I’m proud of what I’ve managed to achieve so far; it’s been life-changing for me.”
Construction director, Gareth Neale commented: “Emma is an inspiring member of the team and the resilience she has shown is incredible. We are very pleased she is on her career path with us and her passion to learn and sheer tenacity make her a fantastic apprentice.”
The theme for International Women’s Day 2022 is #breakthebias, where successes are highlighted, awareness is raised against bias and action is taken for equality. For further information on International Women’s Day visit www.internationalwomensday.com
-ENDS-
Contact: Emma Mackay, 077383 12960, emma.mackay@vistry.co.uk
References to “we”, “us” or “our” are to the part of the Vistry Group (including Linden Homes, Bovis Homes, Countryside Homes, Drew Smith, Vistry Ventures or one of Vistry’s joint venture companies) from which you are intending to purchase a new home. References to "you” and “your” are to the prospective buyer or buyers of a new home from us.
All images are used for illustrative purposes only and are representative only. They may not be the same as the actual home you purchase and the specification may differ. Images may be of a slightly different model of home and may include optional upgrades and extras which involve additional cost. Individual features such as windows, brick, carpets, paint and other material colours may vary and also the specification of fittings may vary. Any furnishings and furniture are not included in any sale. Please check with our sales consultants for details of the exact specifications available at the development(s) for each type of home and the associated prices.
