Hear how employers are creating supportive and inclusive work environments
Actions speak louder than words, and as more women look to enter traditionally male-dominated areas, businesses need to provide a supportive and inclusive environment so tradeswomen can thrive.
To shine a light on what employers are doing well and understand what more can be done, we spoke to several trailblazing women.
“One of the main challenges I see women having within the trade industry isn’t even on a worksite. It starts with their clothes.” Ashling Cannell, Incat Training Support Officer said. “Hooking your female apprentice up with workwear that fits is a great start.”
Something that is a common worry for female apprentices starting is how they will be treated and whether they will fit in “with the blokes”.
MEGT ambassador, Bardie Somerville, told us this was something she struggled with as an apprenticeship, saying “I really felt like I had to be someone I wasn’t to fit in with being a tradie and with the boys onsite”. She added that it was important to remember that “we all have something super special to bring every day to every team.”
Maddie, a fourth-year apprentice told us she was surprised at how welcoming the men in her company were. “They are really funny and I feel included with most of their jokes onsite,” she said.
A similar challenge for women as they enter the trade industry is having few or often no other women to chat with, which makes finding someone to connect with, bounce ideas off or get support from difficult.
“I don’t know any other women in the trade industry or even my industry”, said Storm, an 18-year-old welding and fabrication apprentice, who was welcomed to the Incat team alongside two others earlier this year. “Although people have been really supportive and open to having me on board, it’s nice to have other girls doing this with me”.
The importance of mentorship is well documented and mentors provide much-needed encouragement and advice to help female apprentices overcome their obstacles and stay motivated.
“I know how hard it is to complete an apprenticeship without any support, so being a mentor means I get to coach them, guide them, and provide them with all the tools they need to achieve their dreams,” comments MEGT Mentor, Jess.
Employers who dedicate time so women can be mentored well, or who help apprentices further their skills and knowledge, are seen as being particularly supportive and often reap the rewards of higher retention and engagement.
Another common challenge for women to overcome is the misconception that women aren’t as strong or capable of the same type of work that has been traditionally seen as “manly.”
“It’s really common for people who come on-site to assume that I can’t lift heavy things or tackle larger jobs,” said Taylah, an automotive apprentice. “I just tell them I can do it, that I am capable, and that I will ask for help if I need it.”
Employers who celebrate the strengths of all employees and who act to create a culture of respect and equality are more likely to attract and retain female apprentices said Melody Martin, an auto-electrician apprentice. “I am really lucky. The guy who employed me is the very family orientated man and adores his daughters and wife. It shows in his openness to taking on a female apprentice and how respectful a place the workshop is.”
Amber Gaden Managing Director at Offroad Trucks Australia agrees, and is passionate about providing equal opportunities to individuals who are passionate about pursuing their interests, regardless of gender. “Gender stereotypes have never formed part of our makeup and anyone keen deserves a chance to do something they love.”
Women play a vital role in the world of trade, despite facing numerous obstacles and barriers. Only by acknowledging and understanding women in trade can we truly appreciate their impact and help them overcome stereotypes.
