Tony Thompson

Winner of the 2014 WISE Advisor Award

13 November 2014

Tony Thompson, Construction Skills Training Manager, Incommunities Group Ltd

Tony recruits, develops and supports apprentices through their training programme in the property arm of a social housing organisation. He has played a leading role in developing pathways into construction for women through schools engagement, careers fairs and taster days. He is the person who removes the blockages and breaks down barriers, which has been particularly important for female apprentices.

In five years the number of women apprentices in Incommunities has increased by almost 300%, and female apprentices have been recognised for the quality of their work. Tony has made great strides in changing culture, tackling inappropriate behaviour and encouraging everyone to see the benefits of a diverse workforce.

Many female apprentices credit Tony with a big part in their success, “With Tony’s help I became a person again and now have a home, a career and a family that are proud of me."Lisa Kaye, Qualified Site Joiner

On winning the WISE Award, Tony said, “It means that Incommunities is doing the right thing. We are passionate about what we believe, and it’s nice to get recognition for it.”

Watch the video of Tony Thompson talking about his work.