In 2022, IPAF President Karin Nars launched the 'Women in Powered Access' initiative, inviting women of all ages and different professional roles to share their stories of inclusivity. The initiative includes a number of key actions, including providing a platform to tell the stories of women in powered access in both the media and at industry events. IPAF will also use its own print, web and social media platforms to share these inspirational case studies and will also continue to invite prominent women speakers to present at IPAF events. IPAF will share a series of case studies at  www.ipaf.org/casestudy to communicate the opportunities our industry offers women. 

What is your role in powered access? I am an independent freelance instructor for IPAF. I qualified in October 2022 and am approaching my first year as an instructor. I have been an instructor in other working at height access equipment for a while now but the feather in the cap was IPAF.

How did you come into this industry and what attracted you to it?  As I progressed through my career instructing in the health and safety industry it was clear that the leading body in access safety was IPAF. Having been shadowing and working closely with other IPAF instructors I was Inspired to take up the challenge.

What do you find inspiring about your role? My passion is seeing nervous delegates who are brand new to the industry become confident and competent through sharing all the knowledge, skills and information that they need to achieve their qualification in IPAF. It is also inspiring and gives me great pride when conducting renewal courses and delegates are able to walk away re-enthused about the safe use of MEWPs.

Where do you see yourself in five years and what do you want to achieve? intend to continue to build the portfolio of courses I can deliver for IPAF and within the working-at-height industry. I plan to take advantage of all the CPD offered by IPAF and I will be working toward the goal of senior instructor so that I may mentor others and hopefully inspire other female instructors.

What one piece of advice would you give to other women in/thinking of entering the industry? I have always received the utmost respect from delegates, and both myself and the delegates have always enjoyed our time both in the classroom and during the practical tests. Also, the majority of other instructors I have engaged with have been nothing but supportive of women in the industry! So my advice would be to not be put off by any stereotypical attitudes or fears of those stereotypes that may put doubt into your mind about how much you can bring the industry and how you as a female instructor may be perceived.