Coming from a creative background in fashion, Danielle Williamson was always intrigued by how pieces of furniture were put together.
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This new project provides targeted training, mentoring, and industry connections to help women build practical skills, confidence, and clear career pathways.
By partnering with local employers and community organisations, the initiative aims to increase female participation in the trades workforce while creating more inclusive and diverse workplaces across the region.
The initiative includes a Women in Trades Passport short course and a Multi-Trades Taster Program for Women which both aim to encourage women of all ages to take the first step into the diverse and rewarding trades sector.
Women currently only make up a small percentage of the total workforce in trades and only account for about 2 per cent of workers in construction. These initiatives are working to ensure that more women feel ready to enter and remain in the construction workforce.
Whether you’re a school leaver looking to pursue a career as a builder or an employee looking to retrain as a plumber – now is the perfect time to get started in the trades industry.
Now is the perfect time to get started in the trades industry. A trade career can give you:
Click here to find out about other projects across the state.
The Women in Trades Passport short course is a suite of FREE short courses for women to help them build their careers and gain an insight and experience in the trades sector.
To be eligible for these FREE courses you need to enrol in at least two of the courses. Further eligibility criteria applies.
The Multi-Trades Taster Program for Women will give you the opportunity to build confidence while exploring a range of traditionally male-dominated trade areas in a safe and supportive learning environment.
You will have the chance to experience industries including electrotechnology, building, plumbing, automotive, and engineering, and gain practical, hands-on experience to help you decide on future study or career options.
South West TAFE has partnered with the South West Local Learning and Employment Network Incorporated, Hansen Yuncken Australia and Ausnet for the Building Women’s Careers project.
The project includes developing resources, activities and courses that will develop the construction sector’s capacity to attract, train and retain women in the workplace.
A Gender Inclusivity Employment tool kit with sample policies, procedures and templates, employer workshops, information sessions and employer leadership programs will also be available.
A range of women-only and mixed gender training programs with short courses to full qualifications will be offered with industry visits and speakers. Supporting those initiatives will be a regional equity coordinator role and a Women’s Community of Practice.
Industry partners:
South West TAFE provides a range of support services for students, including wellbeing support, and financial assistance such as scholarships to help women overcome barriers to study and succeed in their chosen careers.
Our Building Women's Careers project also gives students the opportunity to connect with other students to support them in their new careers.
Click here to see our range of scholarships or click here to find out about our student support services.
