‘Empowering Her’ program opens pathways into trades for WA women

A group of women in Western Australia are rethinking what’s possible for their futures after completing a hands-on construction course designed to open the door to careers in traditionally male-dominated trades.

Empowering Her is a collaborative initiative delivered through a partnership between Skill Hire, BUSY At Work’s BUSY Sisters program, the Local Jobs Program (WA) and the Construction Training Fund (CTF). Bringing together expertise in training, employment services, industry engagement and women’s participation initiatives, the partnership provides women who have faced barriers to employment with the opportunity to explore trade careers, develop practical skills, build confidence and connect with clear pathways into further training and employment.

Participants earned their White Cards and gained exposure to trades including bricklaying and carpentry, with many now considering further training.

Skill Hire facilitator Simon Brazier said the program delivered strong outcomes for participants.

“Just one word… fantastic,” he said. “Absolutely brilliant. The purpose was to get more women thinking about the possibility of working in the industry and they’ve definitely walked away inspired.”

Beyond technical skills, the program created a supportive environment where participants could connect, build networks and share experiences. Many of the women had faced significant personal and employment challenges, and the opportunity to share experiences with others proved just as valuable as the training itself.

National Mentoring Manager at BUSY Sisters Kym Tierney said, “When women can see the pathway and have the right support around them, they are more likely to take the first step towards a rewarding career.”

For participant Miranda, that sense of connection and support was a highlight of the week.

“This course really opened my eyes to the possibility of making change,” she said. “Everybody was respectful, no-one was judgemental and it really felt like a safe place to be.”

By the end of the program, participants had identified clear next steps, with strong interest in pre-apprenticeship pathways across construction trades and some already moving into further training.