Auto locksmith, problem-solver and the now the Auto Locksmiths Association’s (ALA) first female committee member, Gemma Hemming of Lock Stock Barrel is reshaping perceptions in a traditionally male-dominated trade.
At the time Gemma entered the industry, there was only one other auto locksmith covering the Telford and Shrewsbury area, but Gemma Hemming saw a different kind of opportunity. Her route into locksmithing wasn’t conventional, but that’s what makes these stories so interesting – the trade is open to everyone from all walks of life.
From Garage Floor to Key Programming
I’d done mechanics level 2 at college, so I already had that interest in how things work. My husband owned a garage, and I had some savings and a bit of money come my way, so I thought, why not? I’d been self-employed before as a childminder, and I’d worked in customer service and care, so I wasn’t afraid of dealing with people. My husband actually suggested keys, and that was the start of it…
I trained with 1st Call Locksmiths in Birmingham, which gave me the foundation, but it didn’t stop there. Every day is a school day in this job. I will have been in auto locksmithing 12 years in October 2026 and I’m still learning. Back then, I didn’t even advertise because I didn’t need to. I had contacts through the garage, and that helped me get established. I’ve still got regulars in places like Albrighton, Telford and Shrewsbury.
Precision, Patience & a Creative Mind
My approach to locksmithing is shaped by something I see as both a challenge and a strength – my ADHD.
I’m quite arty. I like baking cakes, I like creating things, and locksmithing fits into that because you’ve got to get it right. I like building and stripping locks, especially on older vehicles. There’s something satisfying about understanding how it all works and putting it back together. That mindset feeds directly into how I work. I like the challenge, but not too much, it’s about balance. I enjoy picking locks and figuring things out, it’s almost like I have to solve it. That’s just how my brain works.
But that drive for precision has also shaped how I handle risk. At the beginning, I was probably too cautious. If I wasn’t 100% sure, I’d turn the job down. I don’t like taking risks with other people’s property. That held me back a bit, if I’m honest. But at the same time, you’ve got to try things to learn. It was about finding the right balance, knowing when to push yourself and when to step back.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
My development hasn’t just come from formal training. Like a lot of people in this trade, I’ve built my knowledge through a mix of hands-on experience and support from others.
I was good friends with Andy Marshall-Brown early on, and suppliers helped too. But a lot of it has been self-taught through videos online, the ALA group, and just speaking to other locksmiths. You build a network, and you find the people who are happy to work together. There’s enough work for everyone in this trade, so need to worry about rivalry.
That collaborative side of things is really important. Being part of a group matters. You learn as much in the bar as you do in the training sessions. That’s something people don’t always realise.
Real Jobs, Real Challenges
The job is never just about the lock, it’s everything that comes with it. I had one customer who refused to pay because he wasn’t happy with the key. It was an EWS key, and he wanted a BMW badge on it, he didn’t want an OEM key. You get things like that.
Then there are the jobs that go beyond technical challenges. There was a Fiat Ducato motorhome. The dad had called me out to programme a new key, but the daughter actually owned it and was living in it with her cats. I started programming, the alarm went off, and then this man turned up with the keys. Turns out it was her motorhome. Then the dad and the son-in-law started arguing. You couldn’t make it up.
Working in rural areas brings its own challenges too. If I’m going somewhere remote, I make sure I’ve prepped everything before I go. Signal can drop out, so I keep location settings on. It’s about being organised and thinking ahead.
Building a Business Around Life
I’ve shaped the business to fit around my life, not the other way round. I tend not to do nights anymore. I focus on daytime work. I’ve got a family, and when you’re a mum, your day doesn’t end when you get home, it starts again.
When I first started, my children were young. I had a baby just after I started in the trade. He’s in year six now. My children are Connor 24, Lauren 22, Samuel 20 and Ryan 10. I’m also a nannie now, which I love. Balancing family life with a demanding trade hasn’t been easy, but it’s central to how I operate. Living in a rural area like High Ercall near Telford, you’ve got to make it work for you. Flexibility is one of the best parts of this job. Every day is different, and you meet all sorts of people.
Staying Ahead of the Curve
Even after nearly 12 years, I’m not standing still. Things are always changing, especially in auto locksmithing. I want to invest in new equipment and look more into areas like van security. I’m also interested in things like EEPROM work and soldering.
For me, it’s not just about using the tools, it’s about understanding what’s going on.
I like to know why things work or why they don’t. ECUs not doing what they should, CAN bus communication, how different parts of the car talk to each other; that’s what interests me. It’s not just about fixing the problem, it’s about understanding it.
Breaking Ground in the ALA
One of the biggest milestones for me recently has been becoming the first female committee member of the Auto Locksmiths Association. I’ve only been an ALA member for about a year, and I never really saw myself getting involved at that level. The committee already does a great job, but it’s nice to now be part of it.
It’s definitely different being a female in this trade. When I first walked into an ALA meeting, I felt like a new shiny toy being the only female there. But now they’re used to me, and I hope it encourages more women to join.
The organisation itself is a big part of why I’ve developed. The training is excellent, but like I always say, you learn just as much from the people around you. Being part of that network is really helpful, and I’m looking forward to my first committee meeting and seeing how I can contribute.
A Different Kind of Locksmith
What sets me apart isn’t just the technical side, it’s how I approach the job. I try to balance caution with curiosity, creativity with precision, and independence with working alongside others. I’ve built the business around relationships, around my family, and around constantly learning.
I’m happy with where things are, but I always want to understand more and improve. That’s what keeps it interesting.
www.LSBtelford.com
lockstockbarrel@outlook.com
More info
Lock Stock & Barrell, based in High Ercall near Telford, provides specialist auto locksmith services across Shropshire and surrounding areas. Founded by Gemma Hemming, the business has grown through strong relationships with local garages and a reputation for reliable, knowledgeable service. With a focus on continuous learning and investment in new technologies, Lock Stock & Barrell is positioned to adapt to the ever-changing demands of modern vehicle security.