Eilish Grundon Rheem Apprentice Interview

Rheem Handing Out $30k To Kickstart Aussie Plumbers' Careers

Rheem Australia is encouraging Australian apprentice plumbers and gas fitters, both current and those who are this year starting their TAFE/RTO course, to apply for a share of the $30,000 in grants available from the scheme. Ten deserving apprentice plumbers from around Australia will be rewarded with a grant of $3,000 to support the progression of their study and help kickstart their career.

Now in its eighth year, the Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants program was established to alleviate the financial strain felt by many apprentice plumbers, and to invest in the skills of future plumbers and provide training assistance.

"Since launching the Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants program in 2012, we've awarded $240,000 in grants to apprentice plumbers around Australia," says Chief Operating Officer at Rheem, Chris Taylor.

However, the benefits of the grant aren't just monetary, explains 2019 recipient Carl Marcic.

"The conversations that occur between apprentices and their employer during the application process promotes an environment whereby strengths are identified, and constructive criticism becomes a welcome starting point to further improvement," reflects Marcic.

"Rheem is engaged with, and committed to, the plumbing community and our involvement doesn't stop with products and innovation. One of the most valuable ways we can support the future of our industry is by championing the education and training of Australia's next generation of plumbers," adds Taylor.

Grant recipients will receive $2,000 to assist with their TAFE/RTO fees and textbooks, and $1,000 to help newcomers build their all-important trade toolbox.

"Following feedback from apprentices, plumbing teachers and employers, we've determined that the greatest financial hardships are associated with tuition and tools. The grant provides recipients with the opportunity to commit to further study, such as continuing the optional fourth year where apprentices can earn their tradesman license and dream of one day operating their own business," he says.

Since its inception, Rheem has awarded 180 Grants to apprentice plumbers from all walks of life: females and males, teenagers and mature-age apprentices, as well as those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

"All recipients share one commonality; the ambition to become the next generation of plumbers. We're committed to helping aspiring apprentice plumbers achieve their goals, regardless of the diverse paths that have led applicants to where they are today." A panel of independent industry experts and a Rheem adjudicator will judge the 2020 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants.

"I urge every apprentice plumber to apply for a 2020 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grant. We've streamlined the application process this year to make it easier to apply than ever before. Apprentices have nothing to lose and everything to gain," concludes Taylor. Applications for the 2020 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants program open on Monday 10 February 2020 and close at 5pm on Monday 30 March 2020. Successful grant recipients will be announced on Friday 8 May 2020.

Applicants must submit the completed form via the website at www.rheem.com.au/apprentice.
Recipients of previous Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants are not eligible to enter. Please see the Rheem website for full terms and conditions www.rheem.com.au/apprentice.

Interview with Eilish Grundon

Question: What are your successes and challenges as woman in a man's world?

Eilish Grundon: My biggest successes have been finishing my apprenticeship and becoming confident and comfortable within myself as a tradesperson. Of course, this hasn't been an easy road and I have faced many challenges along the way.

Surprisingly enough, the most challenging time of my apprenticeship was when I was working with a female tradesperson at an all-female plumbing company. During this experience, I was pushed to behave, act and perform in a way that made it seem we had a point to prove and promoting ourselves as being better than men in the industry. This was extremely disheartening as I had always been supported by my follow tradesmen and strongly believed in diversity in the workplace.

I was lucky enough to transfer my apprenticeship to Axis Maintenance Services. I have been able to continue to grow into the tradesperson I am today with Axis. My fellow tradesmen, supervisors and managers at Axis have always been supportive and have encouraged me to succeed.


Question: How have you overcome these challenges? What's motivated you during these challenging times?

Eilish Grundon: During my challenging times I have strongly relied upon the dream of finishing my apprenticeship and becoming financially stable. When I was growing up, money was always a struggle in my household and I didn't want my brother, sisters, partner and my future family to have to feel that struggle. My siblings have always motivated me during the hard times to continue to push myself and succeed.


Question: What tactics have you used to remain successful in this male-dominated world?

Eilish Grundon: I have recently heard a saying which I feel reflects strongly on my work's success: 'Prior preparation prevents poor performance'.

I attribute my success to always being prepared. The best advice my Dad gave me before I began my apprenticeship was to always have a pen and notepad in my pocket. Six years on and every working day, you will see me with a pen and notepad at the ready. Similarly, being prepared with the right tools, organised toolbox and a ready to go attitude will set you part from the rest.


Question: Were you apprehensive about applying for a grant because of your gender?

Eilish Grundon: I was very apprehensive about applying – I didn't want my fellow peers or people in the industry to think I only won this award because I was a female. However, I strongly encourage other female plumbing apprentices to apply for the grant. The financial struggle of being an apprentice can really take a toll. The grant was a big help, I was able to purchase tools that would have taken me months to save for and complete TAFE courses that have pushed me miles ahead in my career.

Question: How did winning a Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grant change or transform your apprenticeship experience?

Eilish Grundon: Winning the Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grant has benefited my career is ways. When I first applied for and received the grant, I could never have predicted the multitude of ways that it would impact my life for the better. With the grant, I have able to purchase tools that otherwise would have taken me months to save for. I have also been able to use my grant towards completely my Certificate 3 and Certificate 4 in Plumbing. This gives me a cutting edge and has allowed me to improve my tradecraft.


Question: What does the grant mean to you?

Eilish Grundon: The grant is a fantastic initiative! It demonstrates Rheem's commitment to the plumbing industry by investing in apprentices and rewarding hard work and dedication. I am proud to be a recipient and am a strong advocate for the Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grant.


Question: What inspired you to become a plumber?

Eilish Grundon: After leaving school, I knew wanted to do something hands on. I attempted a career in the sport industry and after 3 months of university I knew it wasn't for me. I realised I had to find a career where I could learn and work with my hands. Growing up, my Dad was always working hard as a mechanic and instilled his strong work ethic in me. So, when the opportunity arose to become an apprentice plumber, I jumped at the chance.


Question: Do you feel like you've struggled as a woman in a typically male dominated industry?

Eilish Grundon: At times, I have felt difficulty in being my full self at work and speaking out against small issues (like asking for female uniforms, for example). Though, I have learned to have more confidence to deal with the range of looks I receive when I arrive on site.

When client's call for a plumber, they're typically expecting a man and I think many people feel a bit shocked when they see me fix their plumbing issue. However, I have gained far more experience and confidence within myself about these things, and they no longer hold me back. I know I'm a talented plumber and can do my job just as well as any other man I know. At the end of the day, that's all that really matters.


Question: Can you tell us more about your current work role? How did you achieve this position?
Eilish Grundon: My current role is State Manager for Western Australia for Axis Maintenance Services. After completing my apprenticeship, I went on to run multiple successful projects in Queensland.

I was so lucky as my direct manager in Queensland was a strong supporter of females in the industry and could see I had the potential to go further and stretch myself with Axis.

After much discussion with the company's managers, I was promoted. My current role involves quoting works, client relationships, invoice reviews, business development, scheduling work for our plumbers and sub-contractors and when we are busy on the frontline, my role also involves me jumping on the tools to manage the workload.


Question: What advice do you have for women who are considering pursuing plumbing?

Eilish Grundon: My only advice is to get as much work experience as you can! If you're struggling to find a company who will give you work experience, I would encourage women to reach out to me. It's important to be prepared and aware of what type of work you will be doing before signing up to the four years! I'd also remind aspiring plumbers – female or men – that there are so many different types of plumbing: commercial, residential, new builds and maintenance. It's not all about getting covered in poo.


Question: What advice do you have for other apprentices hoping to receive a Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grant?

Eilish Grundon: Put time into your application and don't rush it.


Question: What's next, for you and your career?

Eilish Grundon: Honestly the world is my oyster! I have my qualification and am learning new things every single day.

Axis Maintenance Services (AMS) is an international company and I am hoping to get over to London to see how we operate on the other side of the world. Until then, I will continue to grow the Western Australian branch and break into the commercial maintenance plumbing sector. I will continue to use my position to promote women in the trade and be a positive role model.


Interview by Brooke Hunter