Breaking New Ground: Aleyna, Our First Apprentice in Reinforced Concrete Construction
A career in the trades is still often seen as a man’s domain. Here’s what Aleyna, a trainee reinforced concrete constructor, says about her apprenticeship at OTTO WULFF.
Aleyna takes off
Aleyna is just at the start of her career, but already in the first of her three-year apprenticeship, she’s completely immersed in her profession. Whether at the Construction Training Centre (AZB) or on an OTTO WULFF construction site, the 20-year-old quickly realised that reinforced concrete construction was the right path for her.
Her original plan was different: “I actually wanted to become a bricklayer. But then my trainer, Thomas Storm, encouraged me to try reinforced concrete construction here at the AZB. And I haven’t regretted it for a moment!”
She loves creating things with her own hands and seeing the results of her work. This drive carries over into her free time, too: a keen swimmer, Aleyna also enjoys working with textiles and crafting items that bring lasting joy.
Concrete’s longevity is another source of inspiration for her. It’s not just the physical durability that fascinates Aleyna, but also its sustainability and future potential: “More and more research is being done into recycled concrete and how to work with it. For me, it’s both a sustainable material and a sustainable career.”
What is it like to be a woman in the trades?
However, she doesn’t want to place too much emphasis on her supposed “special role” as a woman on the construction site: “Sure, it’s different working almost exclusively with men. But I get on well with everyone!” The young woman from Hamburg also knows how to handle the notoriously tough tone on construction sites: “It’s always considerate and pleasant among us.”
There are some differences compared with her male colleagues, for example when assessing strength for carrying heavy loads. “But there’s nothing that holds me back as a woman in my work,” says the aspiring reinforced concrete worker, who has already demonstrated her skills on construction sites for both residential and school projects.
Outlook: What's next for Aleyna!
Aleyna is set to complete her apprenticeship in 2027. Until then, she’s determined to pick up as many tips and tricks as possible from her supervising journeyman, in addition to mastering the standard training topics.
Aleyna encourages other women interested in a career in the trades to follow their passion: “Don’t be discouraged by the fact that the trades are often seen as a male domain. If it appeals to you, be confident and go for it!”
Are you a young talent interested in a career in the construction industry?
Follow in Aleyna’s footsteps and start your career with us! You can find all the information you need on our "Young Talents" page.
