Aussie tradeswomen are set to break records as well as barriers next month when they gather at Australia’s largest networking event for women in construction.
A diverse lineup of female industry leaders and equality champions are set to speak in front of thousands of lady-tradies seeking to drive positive change across the industry.
Part of Australia’s largest building and construction expo, Sydney Build 2024, the annual networking opportunity is a chance for those passionate about fostering change to discuss ways to reduce barriers to females on the tools.
Currently, women account for just 13 per cent of all construction-related jobs and just over 2 per cent of trade-related roles.
Meanwhile, women who begin pursuing a trade career are more likely to exit the industry, with over half dropping out before completing their apprenticeships.
Female tradies blame employer bias, sexism and harassment as some of the biggest reasons why women are so underrepresented within the sector.
However the Women in Construction Sydney Build networking event is seen as a chance to begin demolishing those toxic workplace traits, with Australia’s top lady tradies discussing the blueprints behind building a more inclusive and diverse culture.
One of those women is Heimy Molina, a graduate engineer now working within the construction industry.
She says, while the networking event will help drive positive change for women, men are equally welcome to join the discussion to help construct industry change.
“The presence of females in male-dominated fields and being part of the women in construction ambassadors of Sydney Build will aim to not only empower women but will also encourage men to be included in the conversation — which is equally as important!” she said.
Expo ambassador and Women’s Network Australia content manager Bec Mcoan says the gathering was a chance to showcase the vast opportunities available to women in construction.
“Finding and obtaining a role in this industry has long been a barrier for women, and it’s important we showcase the many opportunities that now exist for women and girls and ensure construction companies are providing adequate opportunities for those keen to make their mark in the industry,” she said.
Meanwhile, Taleah Henderson, the CEO behind the female support network Future Lady Tradies and now an ambassador for the Sydney Build Expo, believes the event is a chance to spark change.
“Together, we will continue to break barriers, inspire others, and pave the way for a more diverse and inclusive future in construction,” she said.
The ladies will be joined by other key speakers and industry experts from Infrastructure NSW Women in Construction, National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), Women in Building and Information Modelling (BIM), Awesome Women in Construction, Empowered Women in Trades, Trades Women Australia.
The Women in Construction networking event will take place on May 2nd from 3.30 pm—5 pm at the Sydney Build Expo, Australia’s largest construction and design show. It will bring together industry professionals, innovators, and thought leaders to explore the latest trends and developments in the built environment.
