Amanda Hewer says there are still employers who won't consider hiring a female apprentice while others say they've never received an application from a woman.When Amanda Hewer was in high school and still figuring out what she wanted to do with her life, trades never felt like an option.
It would take a few more years and a conversation with a like-minded friend for her to be made aware of the career options for women that existed outside gender stereotypes."Her boyfriend was a boilermaker – I didn't even know what that meant — she had an office job," Mrs Hewer recalled. And even in 2024, Mrs Hewer said she still encounters employers who wouldn't consider giving a female apprentice a chance.
"I've had some pretty tough days. I've had a bit of mistreatment but it's all about that support network," she said Ms Briggs said while the work is physically demanding she loves being active, and has a very supportive host employer."I was like, 'Might as well just give that a crack' and yeah, loving it," she said.
Although Ms Bates has now decided to go to university and learn project management, she said she would "highly recommend" getting a trade to other women like her.And the only downside to working on a building site? The portable toilets.Get our local newsletter, delivered free each FridayAustralia is facing a tradie shortage. Why do nearly half of all apprentices drop out?UN Security Council backs plan for Israel-Gaza ceasefireThis man told his wife he was printing pornography.