It was a wonderful experience to see the overall impact that the program has had on these women.
A MESSAGE FROM THE COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR, LIZ NAIR
MBA enjoys success for Women in Trades Master Builders ACT was successful in gaining a government funded grant this year which allowed women interested in trying out a trade to come and get involved at MBA ACT. The program ran for four weeks and aimed to increase the number of women in male dominated trades, to increase the understanding of best practices for recruiting and retaining women in trades, and to improve the networking connections between apprentice employers and women. MBA ACT President, Gracie Ferreira said that women are an essential part of the building and construction industry. “I strongly believe that women have a lot to contribute to the industry and that they have certain traits that complement what the men are already doing. It should be about doing what you enjoy and love, and not about it being a male or female industry”, Gracie Ferreira said. Participants of the program were provided with the opportunity to gain insight into a full range of experiences within the construction industry including structured training, hands on simulated work, and work site placements. The program allowed women to determine whether they would like to pursue a career in the construction industry. Program participant Anita Hac said the Women in Trades Program provided her with many opportunities.
Guideline Workshop participants
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MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION NEWS EDITION 4 2018
“Having completed a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture I knew I wanted to do more and expand my knowledge on the practical aspects. The Women in Trades program allowed me the opportunity to get a feel for what it would be like to work in a trade in the building and construction industry. I met wonderful people and networked with inspiring employers and employees”, Anita added. One of the biggest goals we had for the program was to provide women with an inclusive worksite culture which is free of discrimination or bias. A participant of the program, Jess Pinney-Martin said that the program has given her a great sense of accomplishment and happiness. “Following this program I was offered an apprenticeship with MBA which I am now six weeks into, and I can honestly say that this is the happiest I have been in a long while. Every day I am learning new things and can go home at the end of a work day and be proud of what I have accomplished”, Jess Pinney-Martin said.
One of the biggest goals we had for the program was to provide women with an inclusive worksite culture which is free of discrimination or bias.
