Cara, Leakage Network Technician

How long have you worked for Wessex Water?

Approximately 18 months.

How did you apply?

There was an Apprentice Open Day event at Claverton in Bath and I took part in a speed interview with a few different departments, including Leakage and Distribution.

What attracted you to Wessex Water in the first place?

Having left the army I was looking for a new career. I wanted something that used technical knowledge but was very much an outdoor role. After researching the industry I realised there were a variety of roles that might have suited me and when speaking with those that already worked for Wessex Water, they were so positive about the company.

What does your job entail and what do you most enjoy about the role?

I am currently a Network Technician Apprentice working within the Leakage team. We use all sorts of equipment to detect leaks. These leaks are mostly invisible to the public but we can hear them. My favourite part of the role is the opportunity to work in the beautiful countryside and find and repair leaks that reduce our leakage levels. Finding leaks is sometimes a difficult job and there is often a problem to solve, but when you do solve it, it's really rewarding.

Tell us about your team and what you like most about working with them

The Taunton Leakage team is a close-knit bunch of eight people, including me. We have a wide range of experience in the team, from me (an apprentice) to someone who’s been with the company for 46 years! There is some really good knowledge within the team and I feel a responsibility to learn and pass on the skills. The team is always very supportive and quick to help one another out if there is an increase in leakage levels in one of our areas.

Why do you think Wessex Water is a great place to work?

The biggest driver for me is the opportunity to work with some great people. Everybody has been really helpful and supportive and you can tell that everyone is trying to pull in the same direction. There’s also a range of departments that I get to work with such as the Repair and Maintenance, Distribution and Customer Inspector teams. Everyone is willing to help out each other.

Aside from this, Wessex Water offers some great employee benefits - the healthcare plan is just one of them.

What do you enjoy most when not working?

I’ve always been passionate about horses. I still look after friends’ horses and help keep them in top condition. I’ve got two dogs that I enjoy walking, and my husband is a farrier so we are naturally outdoorsy people.