21/05/2026
Emma Carpenter AIEP is an Employment and Skills Coach at Sovereign Network Group, based in Dorset. She recently completed the IEP Certificate in Employability Practice (Cert EP) and was named IEP Member of the Month for March 2026, recognised for standing out as an exceptional learner throughout her journey.
We sat down with Emma to hear about her career path, her experience with the IEP Learning Academy, and what drives her passion for the work she does.
Tell us about your current role and the work you do.
“I currently work as an Employment and Skills Coach for Sovereign Network Group, where I support individuals to move closer to or into sustainable employment. My role involves delivering tailored one-to-one guidance, helping people to build confidence, identify their strengths, and overcome barriers that may be impacting their progression.”
How did you get into working in the employability sector?
“During the COVID-19 pandemic, the industries I had trained and worked in – including wedding and event management, theatre, and aviation – were significantly impacted and largely shut down. As a result, I needed to adapt quickly and seek a new direction. I moved into the criminal justice sector, where I began supporting individuals with convictions. Through this work, I became increasingly involved in helping people prepare for and secure employment upon release, which ultimately led me into the employability field.”
What motivated you to enrol in the IEP Certificate in Employability Practice?
“I enrolled in the IEP Learning programme to strengthen my professional practice and gain a recognised framework for the work I do.”
Can you share some examples of how the skills and tools you’ve gained from the programme have been valuable in your work?
“I have developed more confidence in using coaching techniques, active listening, and effective questioning to help individuals explore their goals in greater depth.”
Has your journey on the programme helped you learn things about yourself?
“It has helped me to recognise my resilience and adaptability, particularly when supporting individuals with complex needs. Overall, it has increased my confidence in my professional identity as an employability practitioner.”
What would you say to someone considering enrolling in this programme?
“I would highly recommend the programme to anyone working in employability. It offers a great opportunity to reflect on your practice, build confidence, and connect your day-to-day work to recognised professional standards.”
What does being part of the IEP community mean to you, and how has it supported your journey so far?
“It is reassuring to be part of a network of practitioners who share similar values and challenges. The community supports ongoing learning and development, and it reinforces the importance of maintaining high standards in the support we provide.”
What does being an employability professional mean to you personally?
“It is about empowering individuals to recognise their potential, build confidence, and take meaningful steps towards a more positive future. For me, the focus is on equipping people with the skills, knowledge, and resilience they need to achieve independence, rather than creating reliance on support. I believe in supporting individuals to develop practical life skills and confidence so they can make sustainable progress and feel able to manage their own futures.”
Finally, what would you say to someone considering a career in employability — and what keeps you passionate about the work you do?
“I would say that a career in employability is both challenging and highly rewarding. It requires patience, resilience, and a genuine commitment to supporting others. What keeps me passionate is seeing the progress individuals make – whether that is gaining confidence, engaging with support, or moving into employment. Even small steps can have a significant impact.”
Inspired by Emma’s journey? Take the next step in your employability career.
The IEP Certificate in Employability Practice (Cert EP) is designed for practitioners who want to strengthen their professional practice, build confidence, and gain a recognised qualification in the sector. Whether you’re new to employability or looking to formalise your existing expertise, the Cert EP gives you the framework and community to grow.