Women Who Weld Programs with the QMI

Weld Australia participated in two Women Who Weld Programs in Queensland over the last month. One was run at the Mabel Park State High School, with students from nearby Woodridge State High School in attendance as well. The other program was held at Glenala State High School.

Nationally, just over 12% of the manufacturing labour workforce is female. The manufacturing workforce in Queensland is 72% male and ageing—more than half of the workforce is aged 40 or older.

The Women Who Weld Program is run by the Queensland Manufacturing Institute. The objective of the program is to increase gender diversity and participation in manufacturing careers. The aim is to encourage young girls to explore a manufacturing pathway in a safe and supportive environment.

It provides the opportunity for female high school students in years 10, 11 and 12 to gain insight into trade skills and career pathways, including local employment opportunities. The girls spent the day using augmented reality welders and speaking to women in the industry before having a go at welding together their own jewellery tree.

Weld Australia facilitates training on the Soldamatic augmented reality welding simulators. This helps the students involved practice their skills in a safe environment before they move onto real-world welding.

Students at Mabel Park State High School.

Students at Mabel Park State High School.

Students at Glenala State High School.

Students at Glenala State High School. Students at Glenala State High School.