Breaking barriers - women redefining signmaking

One day she’s welding aluminium lightboxes in the workshop, and the next, she’s in the city applying giant Karen Walker window decals or installing signage on the side of a building from a boom lift. For signmaking apprentice Beau Little, no two days are the same.

“If variety is the spice of life, then I’ve definitely found my dream job,” says the 25-year-old. Having worked as a cattle musterer in Australia and dabbled in metal work, Beau’s search for the right career path led her to signmaking.

“I wanted a job where I could work with my hands but also be creative and have fun. After some research, I decided to give signmaking a try.”

Two years into her apprenticeship with Competenz, Beau is thriving at Big Ideas, one of New Zealand’s top signage companies. “I love the variety – I’ve gained so many new skills and sharpened the ones I already had.”

Although sheis focusing on becoming a “solid all-round trades-woman”, Beau is also discovering her niche.

“I'm really loving the electrical, fabrication and install side of signmaking. I love driving all the machinery I can get my hands on, and I enjoy the satisfaction of a big install.”

Ross Hall, Director at Big Ideas, is thrilled with Beau’s progress. “She is unique in that she’s a really good all-rounder but can also pick up a welding torch and weld, which is very helpful in the fabrication of large signage.”

Beau is one of three female Competenz apprentices at Big Ideas, with a fourth soon to join.

Ross is committed to fostering talent in the signmaking trade, especially among women.“Signmaking is traditionally male-dominated, but women bring unique strengths, like attention to detail and strong organisational skills. They bring a different perspective to problem solving and create a more well-rounded team environment.”

“Taking on apprentices means you have dedicated team members for at least three years, I still have one here sixteen years later. The key is to keep them engaged, create a unique work environment, and constantly challenge them.”

Ongoing support from Competenz Training Advisor, Grant Alsop helps fuel the success.

“I visit the apprentices once every three months and am available to them every day for assistance if they need it,” Grant says. “The great thing about this industry is it’s creative and suitable for all, and Big Ideas provides the ideal environment. They have a good skilled team who are keen to pass on their knowledge, they are encouraging, and acknowledge achievement.”

So, what do you need to make it as a signmaker? Ross says the number one attribute is attitude.

“You also need to have a passion for creativity and arts and be versatile. This industry is not about signage but about fabrication, electrical and face-to-face communication.”

Luckily, 28-year-old Caitlyn Foster possesses all this and more. Now three years into her signmaking apprenticeship, she’s developed a penchant for vinyl but loves every aspect of the daily grind.

“Before signmaking I tried a bunch of different things – I did nursing, worked in telesales, made coffees, and studied visual arts. I’d always wanted to get into signwriting, but no one gave me the opportunity until I met Ross.”

With her apprenticeship set to finish in February, Caitlyn feels like she’s finally found her calling. “It’s a great trade to get into without the debt of university, and there are so many avenues to explore, from electrical work to printing and graphic design. I love the creative side of it – from neon signs to vinyl wraps. One day I’m installing window graphics, and the next I’m wrapping cars, and even coffins.”

And the best part? “It’s hands-on, and every day is different. I’m physically stronger,using machines I never knew existed.”

New kid on the Big Ideas block, Jessica Livick is six months into her apprenticeship, and her enthusiasm is palpable.

“I get to try so many different things. I can apply vinyl to a window at the start of the day and by the end of the dayI can be wiring light-up display stands for big well-known companies,” says Jessica.

Having spent four years as a creative arts producer focusing on media and content creation, it’s not surprising the creative side of signmaking is a big draw card.

“I liked the idea of being a part of a creative process from start to finish and having those things on display forthe public to enjoy. I especially love the graphic design side of it as I like editing and working on computers.”

And although she admits certain projects of the apprenticeship are challenging, Jessica is taking it in her stride.

So, what would Jessica say to other women considering a career in signmaking? Just do it!

“Don’t be afraid to try something new and step outside of your comfort zone. You won’t know unless you try!”

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