After completing a business degree and starting her career in the corporate world, Charlie Timms realised she wanted something different.

“I felt like I needed to be working outdoors and using my hands,” Charlie said.

“I wanted to see the finished product and have a tangible outcome from my work.”

While Charlie had always enjoyed practical work, choosing a landscaping apprenticeship marked a major career change. At 32, she questioned whether she could handle the physical demands and fit into a traditionally male-dominated industry.

“I remember talking to my parents about it and thinking, ‘You know what, I’m just going to give it a crack’,” she said.

“I knew it might be challenging, but I also knew this was what I really wanted to do.”

Taking the First Step into Landscaping

Once Charlie made her decision, everything moved quickly.

With support from Mas National, part of the IntoWork Group, she enrolled in a landscaping apprenticeship and started training within a few days.

Today, she couldn’t be happier with her choice.

“I love going to work. I live for landscaping. Every day brings a new challenge,” Charlie said.

“I’m active all day, spending time outdoors and working towards a shared goal with my team. It’s a great environment.”

Support Throughout the Apprenticeship Journey

Charlie has also benefited from the Mas Apprenticeship Program Support Service (MAPSS).

Although she is still early in her apprenticeship, she values knowing support is available whenever she needs it.

“It’s reassuring to know the service is there if you need guidance or run into challenges,” she said.

“It’s not only there for your apprenticeship. It can help with life outside work as well.”

Building Confidence in a Male-Dominated Industry

Starting on a worksite felt intimidating at first. However, Charlie quickly settled into the environment and gained confidence in her abilities.

She also found inspiration in seeing other women succeed in trade careers.

“When you see other women working in trades, it’s empowering,” she said.

“It gives me confidence because you realise it’s becoming more common.”

Charlie believes respect and hard work help create positive workplace relationships.

“If you treat people with respect, they’ll treat you with respect,” she said.

“If you put in the effort and do your best, people notice that.”

Learning New Skills Every Day

One of Charlie’s favourite parts of her landscaping apprenticeship is learning new skills.

Her interest in construction and tools started when she was younger.

“My stepdad taught me how to build things because he knew I was interested,” she said.

“Now I get to learn how to use those skills properly in a professional environment.”

The experience has opened her eyes to the possibilities within the trade.

“I’ve realised you can build or create almost anything, and that’s really exciting.”

Looking Ahead While Enjoying the Journey

Although becoming fully qualified remains Charlie’s long-term goal, she is focused on enjoying the learning process.

“Every day brings me closer to being qualified, but I don’t want to rush it,” she said.

“Just being on site and learning from experienced tradespeople is valuable. I want to slow down and enjoy the journey.”

For Charlie, choosing a landscaping apprenticeship has delivered exactly what she was looking for: meaningful work, practical skills, and the opportunity to build a rewarding career outdoors.