International Women's Day is a time to celebrate the achievements of women across all industries, including the trade and field service sectors. Women continue to break barriers, take on leadership roles, and drive meaningful change in an industry traditionally dominated by men. At Simpro, we’re proud to spotlight some incredible women shaping the future of trades and field services.
Andrea’s journey into the plumbing industry started as a way to support her husband Dale’s dream. Thirteen years ago, they had the opportunity to buy the company he worked for. Initially stepping in to help, Andrea soon became just as passionate about the industry as he was. Today, she co-runs a thriving business, Heron Plumbing, crediting the right processes, tools, and most importantly - the right team - as the key to success.
Her advice:
Don’t let the male-dominated nature of the industry deter you. With the right team and support, you can make a lasting impact in this rewarding field.
- Andrea Lovell, Director at Heron Plumbing, Australia
Brianna’s journey into trades was unexpected. Originally studying to become a paramedic, she took on an administration trainee role at Tropical Coast Plumbing in 2022. She quickly adapted, learning every aspect of the business, from scheduling to invoicing and even marketing. By 21, she had secured a management role, overseeing training, safety, and business strategy. In 2024, she won the Master Plumbers Andrea Vogler Woman in Business Award, becoming the youngest recipient ever.
Her advice:
Put yourself out there, make mistakes, and learn from them. Leadership is key, and continuous learning will help you grow within the industry.
- Brianna Baker, Business Strategic and Improvement Advisor at Tropical Coast Plumbing, Australia
With over 21 years in the plumbing and heating industry, Debbie Williams has built a remarkable career by demonstrating resilience, determination, and a commitment to driving change. As the co-founder of John Williams Heating Services, she has played a pivotal role in growing the business while navigating the challenges of a traditionally male-dominated field.
Beyond her business success, Debbie has been a strong advocate for diversity and skills development in the trades. Her leadership extends to serving on the Government's Small Business Forum, the Swindon and Wiltshire Economic Advisory Board, and as an Apprenticeship Ambassador, where she champions opportunities for women and young professionals entering the industry. Through these roles, she has influenced policies that support small businesses, workforce development, and greater inclusivity in the trades sector.
Her advice:
Be bold, be persistent, and never underestimate the power of your passion. The trades offer endless opportunities for growth—embrace them!
- Debbie Williams, Co-founder at John Williams Heating Services, United Kingdom
A trailblazer in facilities management, Sonia Murton has built a thriving business while breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated industry. As the Founder & Managing Director of Westbury FM, Sonia’s leadership and vision have not only driven Westbury FM’s success but also earned her rankings in the Top 100 Female Entrepreneurs and Top 100 Influential Women in Construction. She is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in the trades, actively creating opportunities for women to enter and advance in the facilities management sector. Through mentorship, training initiatives, and an inclusive workplace culture, she is committed to leveling the playing field and inspiring the next generation of women in technical roles.
Her Advice:
Go for it! Build your skills, back yourself, and seek the right support. With determination and the right team, you can achieve anything.
- Sonia Murton, Founder & Managing Director at Westbury FM, United Kingdom
Natalie started as an Administration Assistant at Catercall, a company that services and maintains catering equipment. Although Natalie had no prior industry experience her commitment and hard work saw her rise to the position of General Manager. Overseeing the daily operations of the service desk, she finds the industry both challenging and rewarding.
Her advice:
It’s a great environment to work in. It can be fun, it can be a little crazy, but you will always be learning if you are willing to.
- Natalie Hart, General Manager at Catercall, United Kingdom
Starting out in a male-dominated field wasn’t easy, but Suzi’s perseverance and commitment to her craft helped her gain respect and confidence. Today, at Turnpower—a leading provider of integrated property maintenance solutions across London and the Home Counties—she plays a key role in managing compliance and contracts in the facilities management sector.
Her advice:
Trust in your abilities and never underestimate your value. Surround yourself with a supportive network, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to push boundaries.
- Suzi Donovan, Compliance & Contracts Manager at Turnpower Services, United Kingdom
After 20 years in the beauty industry, Leanda Haig made a bold career change into the trades sector. Now a Project Coordinator at Border Eco Systems, a UK-based company specializing in biomass heating, HVAC, and plumbing solutions, Leanda plays a key role in ensuring seamless project execution. Leanda quickly found a passion for project coordination and field service management, leveraging her skills in organization and problem-solving to help engineers work more efficiently. She thrives on the fast-paced nature of the industry, ensuring site visits, installations, and maintenance work run smoothly.
Her advice:
Know your stuff. If you don’t, ask questions and learn. Women bring a different perspective that can benefit any team, so make sure when you speak, your words carry weight.
- Leanda Haig, Project Coordinator at Border Eco Systems, United Kingdom
Dawn’s career started with an apprenticeship in business administration before she moved through the construction, property, and facilities management sectors. Her passion for systems and processes led her to co-found Ignite Consultancy Services, where she supports businesses on their growth journeys as a Simpro partner.
Her advice:
Seize every learning opportunity and push yourself to grow. The skills you gain along the way will be invaluable, and your unique perspective will make a real difference.
- Dawn Lawrie, Managing Director at Ignite Consultancy Services, United Kingdom
Breaking Barriers and Building the Future
The stories of these remarkable women prove that the trades and field service industries are evolving, opening doors for women to thrive. From leadership roles to hands-on experience in the field, women are making their mark and changing the narrative of what it means to work in trades. Learn more about the best trades for women in our special guide.
