Sheffield College engineering apprentice Lucy Nicoll is making history by being the first modern-day female welder and fabricator at Sheffield Forgemasters International Ltd (SFIL).

She recently started as a trainee welder and fabricator, joining the company as part of its largest-ever intake of 33 apprentices. SFIL is a world leader in the delivery of engineering R&D projects, forging technologies, steel-making and ultra-large steel castings (www.sheffieldforgemasters.com).

Based on Brightside Lane, it can trace its roots in Sheffield back more than 200 years and employs 685 people, including the new intake of apprentices.

Women were employed by the company as welders during the war years, but Lucy is the first female welder and fabricator in modern times. Her achievements were highlighted as part of National Apprenticeship Week (4 to 8 March), which celebrated the positive impact that apprenticeships have on individuals, businesses and the wider economy.

Lucy said: “It was an amazing feeling getting an apprenticeship at SFIL. I’m the only girl among 600-plus staff on the shopfloor, and I don’t mind at all. Everyone is really welcoming and so accepting.

"I feel very proud to work there. I enjoy the challenge of welding, and the fact that I am making something and using my maths and problem-solving skills in order to do that.

"When people ask me why I’ve chosen a career in engineering, my answer is ‘why not?’ University is not for me, and I like the fact that I earn as I learn.”