Astrid Arnold, 48, who owns TouchWood South West has been working in the trade for 23 years.

Her initial application to the judges highlighted Astrid’s professionalism, dedication, and commitment to supporting the future of the industry, securing her a place in the semi-finals for the coveted award.

Having started her career at the Women’s Education in Building College, leaving with an NVQ Level 2 in Site Carpentry and Joinery, she worked on building sites in London before starting her company TouchWood South West in 2015.

Astrid will now compete against 26 other top tradespeople from across the UK and the Republic of Ireland, who were selected from more than 1000 applications, for the chance to be shortlisted as a top 10 finalist.

The top 10 will participate in a one-day final event at Screwfix LIVE in September. The overall winner will be crowned Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2023 and take home the ultimate trade bundle of tools, tech, and training worth £20,000.

Astrid, who is thrilled to have reached the semi-finals, said: “I hope to impress the judges with my commitment to supporting future women in the trade and my clear passion for the industry.

“Outside of my carpentry skills I’ve completed a range of personal and professional development courses to support the growth of my business, and I’ve also undertaken a course in the use of CAD to improve the services we can offer to our customers.

“I am constantly striving to improve both myself and my business to inspire the next generation of tradeswomen and I hope this will help me get to the final.”