Toni Bowe – Building Confidence and Skills in Gas Engineering
Introduction
Toni Bowe is an Apprentice Gas Engineer working across the Tyneside area with CMS. Since joining the company in October 2022, she has developed valuable technical skills, gained confidence working independently, and become an important part of the engineering team.
Her journey into the industry shows how apprenticeships can open doors to rewarding careers in engineering.
Discovering a Career in Engineering
Toni always knew she wanted a hands-on career.
“I’ve always liked practical work and understanding how things work,” she explains. “I enjoyed wood technology at school and wanted to study construction at college.”
While studying a multi-skills construction course, Toni was introduced to several trades before deciding which path to pursue.
“After a few months you have to choose a specific course. I realised plumbing and Gas Engineering was something I enjoyed, so I chose that and started looking for an apprenticeship.”
This decision ultimately led her into gas engineering.
A Role Where Every Day is Different
One of the biggest surprises for Toni has been the variety of the job.
“Every day is different,” she says. “One day you’re doing a small job and the next you’re working on something much bigger.”
A typical day could involve travelling to different sites, collecting parts, completing repairs or installations, and learning from experienced engineers along the way.
This constant variety means apprentices are continuously learning.
“I think everyone is always learning on the job,” Toni says. “If I ever struggle with something, I can always call one of the engineers and they’ll talk me through it.”
Learning Through Experience
Hands-on experience has been key to Toni’s development during her apprenticeship.
She credits the CMS engineering team and mentors for helping her build both technical ability and confidence.
“They’re patient, explain things clearly and let me learn by trying instead of just watching,” she explains.
One of Toni’s proudest achievements so far has been completing tasks independently.
“Being able to strip out a boiler and put it back together without any help was a big moment. Doing installs like toilets and taps on my own also feels great because you realise you can do the job yourself.”
Building Confidence in the Industry
Like many people entering a new industry, Toni admits she initially felt nervous.
“It was nerve-racking at first. I wasn’t sure what people would be like or if they’d be comfortable with me being a girl in the industry.”
However, those concerns quickly disappeared.
“They said when I first joined that I’d always be their little sister – now I’ve got lots of brothers.”
Through working with customers and colleagues, Toni has also developed stronger communication skills.
“Before this I was quite shy and didn’t speak to many people. Now I feel much more confident talking to customers and working independently.”
Challenging Myths About Women in Engineering
Toni believes that success in engineering comes down to skills, knowledge and attitude – not gender.
“It’s about the skill and willingness to learn,” she says. “I’ve even been told by people that girls can sometimes be better because they approach problems differently.”
She also believes that visibility is important in encouraging more women to join the industry.
“If I can do it, others can too.”
Advice for Women Considering Engineering
Toni’s message for women interested in engineering is simple:
“Just go for it. You won’t know if you like it until you try.”
She encourages anyone interested to explore training routes like college courses and apprenticeships.
“If you’re considering it, take the opportunity. It might be better than you expect.”
Looking Ahead
As Toni nears the end of her apprenticeship, she continues to develop her skills and confidence in the role.
When asked to describe her apprenticeship in three words, she chooses:
Different. Fun. Empowering.
And perhaps most importantly — rewarding.
