Seven women join Calisen as first all-female smart meter engineer apprenticeship cohort

The pioneering initiative was launched during National Apprenticeship Week (9–15 February 2026) to increase gender representation in a traditionally male-dominated sector, highlighting the value of apprenticeships as a pathway into rewarding careers.

Across the UK, just 16.5% of engineers are women, though the number has been steadily growing over the past decade. The eight-month programme is delivered in partnership with Leep training in Stockport, with wrap-around hands-on training at Calisen’s Smarter Energy Training Academy. The programme initially sought five apprentices, but the quality of applications was so high that seven apprentices have been appointed.

Catherine O’Kelly, CEO of Calisen, said:

"It was hugely energising to meet with our apprentices – I was really bowled over by their passion and enthusiasm for the learning ahead of them. Each apprentice has a really interesting story and distinct ambition. I was struck by the pride they feel in wearing their new uniforms and how much they are looking forward to getting stuck in. One woman told me how she had worked in a factory and been told by a colleague that her dreams of becoming an engineer were impossible. Another was inspired to apply for the role as she had visited our Training Academy as part of a Wigan Youth Zone tour.

“It is so important that we give women the opportunity and vision to stretch out and realise their dreams. I have benefitted enormously from a great deal of sponsorship and support throughout my career, and I’m keenly aware that I’m a minority as a female CEO in the energy and infrastructure industry. Similarly to the apprentices I had the pleasure of meeting today, I feel a real responsibility to lend a hand and bring others up too. It is important we show women and girls what we can do and what we can become. As one apprentice said, “seeing women thriving is an inspiration” – I couldn’t agree more.”

The Calisen apprenticeship provides fully structured training to become a fully qualified Smart Meter Engineer, with ongoing support, coaching and on-the-job learning throughout the programme. No previous technical experience is required, with Calisen committed to training people from the ground up and guiding them step by step through nationally recognised qualifications.

Smart meters are an essential part of the UK's transition to clean energy, giving customers access to cheaper, flexible tariffs and the ability to connect low carbon technologies like solar panels, batteries and EVs.