Lady tradies are getting a leg up in construction with the launch of 60 new fee-free training placements across three “microskill” courses.
Coming from a collaboration between the Institute of Applied Technology—Construction (IATC) and Australia’s leading industry training organisations, these bite-sized, self-directed online courses centre on topics experts describe as “critical for building capability in the construction” both now and into the future.
Ranging from several “high growth area” topics including Introduction to Women in Construction, Introduction to Sustainability in Construction and The Role of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in Construction, the IATC say they want the new placements to encourage more women to kickstart careers in the industry.
“Whether you choose online or face-to-face, these microcredentials include regular educator-led sessions,” says IATC Director Operations, Helen Fremlin.
“These draw on industry specific examples, tasks, and case studies to give students the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills directly with the support of educators.”
“Part of the eligibility process requires women to complete two microskill courses. Microskills are free, two-hour, self-directed sessions, a great way to help get you started.”
Each “microcredential” takes only eight weeks to complete, with experts assuring tradies the industry-specific skills will be recognised as evidence of competence by potential employers and training providers.
Western Sydney University Interim Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Clare Pollock, said the suite of courses and scholarships was designed from the ground up with empowering women in mind.
“The University has a proud history of opening up educational opportunities for students including talented women in our region,” said Professor Pollock.
“These innovative microskills and microcredentials will help students upskill and take advantage of skilled job opportunities in the fast-growing construction sector.
TAFE NSW and Training Services NSW are also inviting young women in schools and parents across the state to register for a Girls in Trades virtual event on the 22nd of May, where participants will learn about different careers and study pathways for young women to consider in construction and non-traditional trades.
CPB Contractors’ Rob Monaci said the wide variety of programs on offer would be vital to attracting new entrants to the workforce who are “passionate about the role diversity, sustainability and digital technology plays in building the game changing infrastructure projects set to roll out across our cities and regions.”
“We need to be doing more to attract people at all stages of their careers to transition into fulfilling careers in construction, particularly women”, he added.
Applications are now open for the IATC’s Women in Construction Scholarships, with successful applicants being offered a pre-class connection session to network with other women and get hands-on experience on a Sydney construction site.
