Media releases

The potential for more female students to undertake TAFE programs has been highlighted at the ‘Why Trades Need Women In Trades Event’ at Federation University Australia.

Held at the University’s Manufacturing and Engineering Skills Centre, Ballarat, the event promoted trades for females as a career option.

Regional female employers who promote female apprentices also attended.

“Prior to the event a Try A Trade activity allowed attendees to have a go at various trades and get some advice from teachers and employers,” Brad Smith, Training and Employment Advisor at FedUni TAFE, said.

“This event focused on the ability for females to get into trades and utilise this as a realistic career prospect.

“We are hoping it will greatly assist the next generation of tradeswomen.”

Gayle Tierney, Victorian Minister for Training and Skills, spoke at the event. Fiona Lawrie from Trades Women Australia discussed the support available to females undertaking a trade.

Up to 200 students from 14 secondary schools throughout Ballarat, Bacchus Marsh and Western Victoria attended, as did employers and industry groups, including Maxitrans, Powercor and the MBAV.

“Apprenticeship and group training organisations also were on hand to discuss options beyond secondary schooling,” Mr Smith said.

Caption: Margi Cousins, Ballarat Women's Business Network; Minister Gayle Tierney; Vice-Chancellor, Professor Helen Bartlett