Lorna Wenman - Getting To Know You

Lorna came to RPC to join the training team, but is so much more than just that, helping us to create a wide range of training and informative content for use both internally by staff and externally by clients, particularly our new e-learning offering: RPC Learn. She’s multi-talented, unflappable and really embodies the RPC Way – happy to pitch in wherever she is needed. At home, you’ll find her drinking tea with her cat or building Lego; find out why she’s so happy to be a part of the family at RPC.  

Where are you based? 

I'm based in Basildon, Essex, and I work from home most of the time. Occasionally, I travel to the office, which is always a treat because I get to catch up with my colleagues. At home, I live with my dad and my cat, Eddie. 

Tell us a bit about yourself

I'm 22 years old and have always lived in Basildon. I went to school in Billericay and, after completing my A-levels, chose to go straight into work as I felt university wasn't the right path for me. Back then, I spent most of my free time either hanging out with friends or with my cats at home. 

How has your career path brought you to RPC?

Before joining RPC, I worked in the Engineering Department of a company specialising in mobility and living aid products. A key part of my role was creating training manuals and delivering training to many individuals, which I really enjoyed. When a training position opened up at RPC, I saw it as a fantastic opportunity. Since joining, I’ve had the privilege to learn and contribute even more. 

What attracted you to RPC? 

My uncle and sibling both work for RPC and have always spoken highly of how RPC is a wonderful company to work for, with brilliant colleagues who make it feel like one big family. I also appreciate how approachable everyone is – I feel comfortable asking questions or sharing any challenges I’m facing, and I always receive the support and guidance I need. 

What are you working on right now?  

At the moment, I’m working on several projects, some involving Primavera P6 and others focused on internal initiatives within the company. I enjoy learning new things and being involved in a variety of tasks – it keeps my workday interesting and gives me the chance to collaborate with a wider range of colleagues! 

What do you like best about your job? 

For me, it has to be the variety – I love having different tasks to work on and collaborating with a range of people. I also really enjoy the continuous learning. Every day brings something new, and in just over a year at RPC, I’ve gained so much more knowledge about this industry. 

What do you do in your spare time? 

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my friends and my cat, or building Lego. I also occasionally draw or create ink and watercolour portraits, which I find really relaxing. Sometimes I brush up on my French from my A-Level studies or dive into non-fiction criminology books. Cooking is another passion of mine – I love experimenting with new recipes. I’m also a fan of tattoos; I have a few already and enjoy looking for inspiration for my next one. 

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? 

When I was younger, I dreamed of becoming an actress. However, as I grew older, I realised I wanted a more stable career that didn’t come with as much anxiety. I attended the Pauline Quirke Academy and had some amazing experiences there, which I thoroughly enjoyed. It also helped me see that acting was more of a fun hobby for me rather than a career path. 

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given? 

The best advice I’ve tried to follow is to step out of my comfort zone. My comfort zone used to be very small – basically just staying in my bedroom with my cat – which really limited my experiences. Since pushing myself to venture out, I’ve become much happier, more sociable, and more confident. Another piece of advice I strongly believe in is to treat others the way you wish to be treated. 

What’s on your desk? 

My desk has my laptop and monitor, along with a coaster that’s almost always holding a cup of tea or my ridiculously large water flask. I also have a little Lego Halloween cat that I built, and there’s usually a pen nearby since I have a habit of doodling. 

How do you like your tea? 

I like my tea with two sugars, unless it’s in a smaller mug, and a generous splash of oat milk. I definitely prefer Yorkshire Tea. 

Dog or cat? 

Definitely CAT! I’ve always grown up with cats, from my mum’s cat Gizmo to Eddie and Evie, the cats my sibling Fionn and I had. They’re even tattooed on my arm! 

If your house was on fire, what 3 things would you save? 

1 – The cat 
2 – My phone 
3 – Folder of all my important/personal documents 

What would your superpower be?

Probably flight – it might sound a bit boring, but with the current cost of living, it seems like it would be pretty handy!