Build your skills in the trades
We’re a collective of tradespeople in Glasgow
We’re joiners, plasterers, decorators and tilers who want to see the construction industry better represent the diversity of our city.
Some of us have been in the trades since we were 17 years old, some of us have learnt in our later years! Some of us have come through the Women in Construction course, some have got trained up abroad, some have trained ourselves!
There’s many routes to getting skilled up or starting a career in construction.
Through the Glasgow Trades Collective’s courses, we can help you build confidence and skills in the areas you want to develop- whether that’s putting up solid shelves on your tenement walls or professionally decorating your pal’s flat.
Choose your course
Beginners DIY Class
A one-off class one the basics of hanging shelves, picture frames and cabinets. Learn how to effectively mark, get good wall fixings and hang a beautiful level shelf!
Beginners Woodworking Course
A two week course on the basics of woodworking. Learn how to use the hand tools necessary for a series of great projects to kit out your home using reclaimed wood.
Women in Construction Introduction
Open to women and non-binary people. A four-week training course on building partition walls, plastering, tiling and decorating.
Meet the Glasgow Trades Collective team!
Stevie
Joiner and Director of
Top Drawer Construction
I have been working as a joiner since I was 15 years old. I now work as director and project manager for Top Drawer. I love working alongside people with different areas of expertise and trades. I will be teaching the joinery and beginners DIY courses.
Penny
Trade professional,
Painter and decorator @interiorsbypenelope
As a self-taught painter and decorator based in Glasgow, I am passionate about encouraging women, non-binary, and trans people to explore the trades. Developing these skills has been incredibly rewarding, and I strive to be part of an inclusive workforce where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. I will be teaching the painting and decorating course produced by the Glasgow Trades Collective, empowering others to gain these valuable skills.
Mairi-Clare
Plasterer and tradeswoman @thehandylass
I started out on the Women in Construction course which led to completing my City and Guilds in Carpentry & Joinery, with a detour into plastering. I finally hung up my waitress' apron after 20 years and went to work for a women's charity, before taking the leap to set up on my own. I'm delighted to be part of this venture to encourage more women to pick up the tools - m'on the lassies!
Multi-tradeswoman, carpenter, joiner, tiler
@the_tradesgal
Clare
I am a multi tradeswoman who has been running my own business as The Trades Gal for the past three years. With a background in fine art sculpture, I do a range of work including tiling, painting & decorating, joinery and plastering. I was also a quarter finalist on series three of Handmade: Britain’s Best Woodworker and I am eager to share my skills with others!