The number of women completing apprenticeships has fallen to the lowest level in seven years, according to figures published this month.

But Kareen Mcquade, 37, is committed to her training at BAE Systems in Scotstoun and hopes to encourage other women to get involved in shipbuilding.

The “mature apprentice” decided working for the firm would be an ideal way to learn her craft.

The mother-of-two told the Post: “I grew up around boats and my father was a joiner by trade, so I was always very hands on and interested in working in shipyards.

“I love the fact that both my children have seen how much work and dedication I have put into my apprenticeship and how much I have gained from the role.

“I have shown them that hard work pays off and that anything is achievable if you have the drive.”

“I have also shown my fellow work mates that I can be trusted and relied on to do a good job, I feel like I am very much a part of the team, which is rewarding for me.”

Recent figures showed there were more than 400 fewer qualifications for women apprentices in 2017/18 than the year before.

In Glasgow City Council the number of women finishing apprenticeships went from 917 to 874, a reduction of 43.

Kareen creates, installs and repairs sheet metal products, mostly to do with heating, cooling and ventilation systems. Her work can take her from the engine room to the kitchen galley, training on various tools and machines.

She said: “It is very important for me to get on with the people I work with within the sheet metal workshop and also throughout the company.“Communication is key in this industry and it is very important to listen to other people’s opinions and ideas and be open to new suggestions.“I would strongly advise anyone to apply for an apprenticeship – it is such a great opportunity to progress in the shipbuilding industry and it is one of the best decisions I have ever made.”

Kareen has done work with Robin House in Balloch with BAE, helping renovate the gardens and a 10-month project inventing and manufacturing a device to aid soldiers suffering from leg fractures with their recovery.

And somehow she still has time to do running and sled dog walks every weekend to raise money for rehoming and training of the animals with her Siberian husky, Luna.

She added: “I believe that as a female it is important for me to promote and attract more women into the ship building industry.

“At the age of 37, I believe I have achieved and learned a lot throughout this apprenticeship and I want others to know that it is never too late to take charge of their career path, regardless of age or gender.”