Incommunities Selects Six Bradford Trade Apprentices

Bradford housing provider Incommunities has selected six apprentices from 1,316 applicants for its 2026 trade intake. The group includes two joiners, two plumbers, an electrician and a gas engineer. Sonia, 39, is starting as an apprentice joiner after a decade working as an artist and chef. The recruits will combine college learning, practical work and nationally recognized trade qualifications during apprenticeships that usually last two to four years.

A New Route Into Joinery

Sonia and fellow recruits Shabs, Matthew, Luis, Jack and Reece completed a two-week induction covering Incommunities services, including neighborhood, customer service and empty homes teams. They also met existing apprentices and joined a community day of action in Clayton.

Sonia, apprentice joiner at Incommunities, said:

“I was ready for a new challenge and wanted a career that offered more stability. I spent a decade working as an artist and chef on creative projects with communities across the Bradford district, so I was looking for something practical and creative that also had a strong social purpose.

“Women, especially women of colour, are underrepresented in the trades, and I wanted to be part of changing that.

“I’m from Bradford and already knew Incommunities as a major local employer. My mum used to work here and told me about the apprenticeship scheme, so I applied with a focus on my transferrable skills and was thrilled to gain a place! I am really enjoying learning at college and from experienced joiners at work. Everyone I’ve met has been so encouraging.”

Experience Before A Second Application

Luis, an apprentice gas engineer, grew up in an Incommunities home after moving to the UK from the Philippines. After reaching the final interview last year, he completed two work placements before applying again successfully.

Luis, apprentice gas engineer at Incommunities, said:

“I applied again this year and was successful. The experience made me even more certain that I wanted to become a gas engineer.”

Trade Careers In Bradford

Incommunities has trained more than 91 trade apprentices across 14 trade areas over the past 15 years. The organization employs more than 900 colleagues, including more than 200 people in practical trades such as plumbing, plastering, electrical work, horticulture and multi-skilled roles.

Dennis Wellington, Director of Property Services at Incommunities, said:

“This year’s new recruits each bring something different. Their stories show that talent can come from many places and that there is no single route into a successful career.

“As one of Bradford’s biggest employers, we have an important part to play in creating opportunities and developing the skills our district needs. We want our apprentices to feel supported, learn from experienced colleagues and have the chance to grow with us.”