HIP Female Skills Competition Final – 29 April 2025
Amidst a continuing shortage of qualified plumbers and the pressing need to encourage more young people — especially women — into the profession, the Worshipful Company of Plumbers is proud to have sponsored the HIP Female Skills Competition 2025.
Celebrating Talent, Determination and Progress
This unique competition provides a powerful platform for aspiring female plumbing and heating students to demonstrate their abilities, build confidence, strengthen their networks, and gain recognition in what has traditionally been a male-dominated field. Many past participants have gone on to achieve remarkable success, proving just how career-defining this experience can be.
Winner Georgia with lecturer and judge Jerry Whitely
Following a series of competitive regional heats, the Grand Final took place on 29 April 2025 at the Stephenson Campus (part of the SMB College Group). The six finalists faced a rigorous practical challenge set by Head Judge Jerry Whiteley of the CIPHE, designed to test not only technical skill but also problem-solving and industry knowledge.
Representing the Company were Master Charles Brooks and Julie Spinks, Chair of the Education and Technical Committee, both of whom were deeply impressed by the finalists’ skill, passion, and determination. Each finalist was commended for their professionalism and dedication.
Congratulations to all six finalists, who each demonstrated outstanding ability and should be immensely proud of their achievements. Georgia Popham-Roberts from Cornwall College St Austell was declared the overall winner, with Rebecca Markey from Kirklees College named runner-up.
Rebecca Markey from Kirklees College as our HIP Female Skills Competition 2025 Runner-Up.
Winner with Lecturer, Judge, Sponsors, Master Charles Brooks and the Presentation Shield
The finalists with J Spinks & C Brooks
All finalists received a Certificate of Excellence from the Worshipful Company of Plumbers. In addition, Georgia was presented with a handmade lead shield, crafted by our volunteers at Amberley Museum — a lasting symbol of plumbing’s enduring contribution to society and a meaningful link between the future of the trade and its centuries-old heritage.