The Grand Final, held at Stephenson Campus - SMB College Group saw six of the UK’s most talented female plumbing students and apprentices. They competed head-to-head in a challenging installation task designed by our official judging partner, Jerry Whiteley of the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE).
Georgia Popham-Roberts from Cornwall College St Austell was officially crowned HIP Female Skills 2025 Winner, standing out with her exceptional technical skill, attention to detail, and composed execution under pressure throughout the competition.
Expressing her excitement, Georgia said:
“The level of work in there was unreal. Everyone has done so well, it makes me even more proud that I have won today. It’s been a really good day. The girls here were all so supportive of each other, everyone’s having a laugh, having a chat.”
Rebecca Markey from Kirklees College earned the Runner-Up title and shared:
“I feel really, really proud of myself for coming here today and just getting on with the task, not getting overwhelmed and delivering a good piece of work. And the girls, the girls have made it really, really enjoyable.”
Celebrating Female Talent in the Plumbing Industry
The HIP Female Skills competition is a plumbing and heating competition dedicated exclusively to female students and apprentices. Now in its third year, the competition continues to spotlight the rising talent of women in a traditionally male-dominated trade, providing Level 2 and 3 learners with an invaluable opportunity to showcase their practical skills in a real-life, high-pressure setting.
This year’s finalists, who progressed through regional heats held across the country, included:
Ashleigh Johnson – Gower College Swansea
Gracie-Anne Mason-Edwards – South and City College Birmingham
Georgia Popham-Roberts – Cornwall College St Austell
Jessica Buck – City College Norwich
Keira Pybus – UHI Moray
Rebecca Markey – Kirklees College
Throughout the competition, the finalists demonstrated impressive technical proficiency, problem-solving capabilities, and in-depth practical skill. Joining Jerry Whiteley on the judging panel were Glenn Scholfield from Aalberts IPS, and Toni Oakley-Tulk and Chris Brummel from Viessmann.
Special Thanks to Our Sponsors
The event was made possible thanks to the support of our valued sponsors and partners, including:
Plumb Centre, Milwaukee, Viessmann, Aalberts IPS, Grundfos, Mira Showers, Stelrad, Fix Radio, Snickers Workwear, Talon, The Worshipful Company of Plumbers, Yorkshire Copper Tube, and the CIPHE.
Zoe Tanner, Managing Director at HIP, shared her thoughts on the competition:
“This year’s final was an inspiring celebration of the exceptional skills and passion these women bring to the trade. The energy and support throughout the event underscored the real progress being made toward building a more inclusive industry. Congratulations to everyone who took part!”
Stay Connected
The HIP Female Skills Competition continues to champion the UK’s most talented female plumbing students and apprentices, providing a platform that not only celebrates their skills but also propels them toward successful careers in the industry. Many past finalists have gone on to achieve remarkable professional success, highlighting the competition’s role as a powerful springboard into the plumbing and heating sector.
Follow us on Instagram and use the hashtag #HIPFSC25 to relive the journey and share in the highlights from this year’s incredible competition.
Check out the photos from this year’s competition – CLICK HERE