Lana Craxford breaks barriers in carpentry

Lana Craxford, a former Leicester College carpentry apprentice, is making history as the first female carpentry apprentice at the Leicester-based timber engineering company, MTE.

Passionate about woodworking from an early age, Lana pursued her craft at Leicester College, where she developed the skills and confidence to thrive in a male-dominated industry. Her apprenticeship, delivered in partnership with MTE, provided hands-on experience in large-scale construction projects, helping her to secure a full-time role as a site carpenter.

The journey to carpentry

Lana’s interest in carpentry began at The Cedars Academy in Birstall, where she excelled in Design and Technology.

Lana adds: “I loved Design and Technology and my interest in carpentry just grew from there. I knew that I wanted to do a craft apprenticeship.”

Knowing that she wanted a hands-on career, she enrolled at Leicester College, where she gained essential industry knowledge and practical experience.

“Leicester College gave me the foundation I needed. The course was really hands-on and the tutors always encouraged me to push my skills further.”

Overcoming industry stereotypes

As MTE’s first female carpentry apprentice, Lana initially faced surprise from her colleagues. However, her skills and determination quickly earned her their respect.

“I don’t mind being the only woman on the shopfloor or out on site. It’s not a problem working with men – they don’t treat me differently –  although they were surprised at first to see me with a nail gun!”

“It wasn’t an issue working with men- they treated me like any other apprentice,” Lana says.

Leicester College played a key role in preparing her for this transition, ensuring that she had both the technical expertise and workplace experience to excel in a real-world setting.

Gaining industry experience

Through her apprenticeship, Lana has been working on major projects, including the construction of 75 timber-framed houses in Derby and first-fix carpentry on a 20-home residential development in Burbage.

Leicester College’s partnership with MTE ensured that she received the best of both worlds - classroom-based learning and invaluable on-site experience. Her mentor, Jason, a 20-year MTE veteran, has guided her through the process, helping her to refine her skills and build her confidence on-site.

A future in leadership

Now a fully qualified site carpenter, Lana has taken on a mentorship role herself, supporting current apprentices following in her footsteps. With MTE’s managing director, Kirk Eversfield recognising her potential for leadership, Lana is on track to progress into supervisory or management roles in the future.

“Lana has proven that women are just as capable in this industry,” Kirk Eversfield states.

“Her success will hopefully encourage more women to take up construction roles at MTE and beyond.”