A force in apprenticeships

AT gforce, the team is proud to celebrate Elly Findlay, a woman whose career is defined by purpose, impact and an unwavering commitment to people.

With 25 years of experience in the apprenticeship space, Elly’s journey is not just impressive, it’s deeply inspiring.

What makes Elly’s story especially powerful is that it began exactly where so many of the people she now supports are standing, as a trainee herself.

From those early days, she built a career grounded in lived experience, empathy and an understanding of what young people need to succeed.

Today, as the manager of apprenticeship services, she brings a wealth of knowledge and insight that can only be earned through decades of hands-on work, empathy and genuine care.

Elly’s long-standing relationships with industry partners and local businesses speak volumes about the respect she has earned across the region.

She is trusted, highly regarded, and known for her ability to balance the needs of employers with what truly matters most: the wellbeing and development of apprentices.

Fittingly, she has been recognised by the Apprenticeship Employment Network for Service Excellence, a standard she sets every day.

Elly’s impact goes far beyond operational excellence. She is a passionate advocate for women in trades and has been instrumental in supporting many young women into non-traditional career pathways.

In industries where representation still matters, Elly doesn’t just talk about change, she actively creates it.

She is equally dedicated to helping young people and those facing disadvantage to access meaningful apprenticeship opportunities, firmly believing that everyone deserves a chance to build a future they’re proud of.

To those who work with her, Elly is more than a manager – she is a mentor, a trusted sounding board and a steady presence.

As one client so perfectly described: “Ultimately, she puts the welfare of her apprentices in her charge above clients’ needs, but in doing this she provides a product that exceeds clients’ expectations.”

It’s a sentiment that captures the heart of her approach – when people are supported properly, everyone benefits.

Elly’s career is a reminder that leadership in business isn’t only about results but about values, relationships and lifting others as you climb.

gforce is incredibly proud to celebrate her achievements and the difference she continues to make every day.