TAFE NSW students are urging women to consider a career in construction trades amid a widening skills gap.
Approximately 1.37 million people are employed in Australia’s building and construction industry. According to Master Builders Australia, women account for 3.1 per cent of trades workers.
“Increasing the number of women in trades is absolutely necessary, and it’s critical that we are getting the right people into the right jobs, regardless of gender,” TAFE NSW Director of Teaching and Learning in Construction and Energy, Jennifer Perkins said.
Jacinta Cliff, a 22-year old apprentice, is completing a Certificate III in Electrotechnology as part of an apprenticeship and is one of a growing number of women taking advantage of the career opportunities in the booming industry.
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Jacinta has secured an apprenticeship with BlueScope and has enjoyed the benefits of being able to earn while she works towards a qualification, and acquiring skills that will come in handy in many aspects of life.
“It’s the perfect way to get your foot in the door. Studying at TAFE NSW built my confidence, and my teacher helped challenge me to take my skills to the next level,” Cliff said.
“I think a lot of women would surprise themselves about what they’re capable of achieving in this industry.”
“Every day is different, and the learning and growth opportunities in the industry mean I can continue to progress in my career. If you have the motivation, the sky is the limit of what you could achieve.”
“The women studying traditional trades at TAFE NSW are proving that gender is no barrier to building a successful career in the industry and making a real impact,” NSW Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan said.
“By encouraging gender diversity in construction, we’re not only helping individuals build rewarding careers but also strengthening the entire workforce and economy.”