“Girls Can Too is such a powerful initiative because it allows students to step outside traditional career expectations and see firsthand what’s possible in trades like electrotechnology. We’re not just teaching skills - we’re opening doors.”
Year 10 girls from across the region will become temporary tradies at ɫֱUlladulla as part of a program to increase the number of women in trades.
Girls Can Too is an opportunity for high school girls to explore training pathways and gain hands-on experience in trades such as engineering, plumbing, electrical work, refrigeration and air conditioning, appliance servicing, construction, carpentry, and signs and graphics. The six week-long training taster is a partnership between ɫֱand the Department of Education Regional Industry Education Partnerships (RIEP program).
The program, which started on 14 May, will see students from Ulladulla High School learn about different trade areas and talking to experts about opportunities in the various trades.
As part of the training, the girls will experience hands-on training, take an industry tour and practice job interview skills. ɫֱElectrotechnology Teacher Matthew Thomson said the program offers a valuable chance to broaden students’ perspectives on careers in trades.
“Girls Can Too is such a powerful initiative because it allows students to step outside traditional career expectations and see firsthand what’s possible in trades like electrotechnology. We’re not just teaching skills - we’re opening doors. “When students pick up the tools, solve problems, and realise they can thrive in this space, that’s when the spark is lit. It’s about showing them they belong here just as much as anyone else, and that a career in trades is a real, exciting option for their future.”
Department of Education Regional Industry Education Partnerships (RIEP program) Officer, Paul Goodwin, said the program opens up so many opportunities for girls who are starting to think about their futures. “Girls Can Too is all about giving young women the chance to explore pathways they might not have previously considered. By getting hands-on experience and connecting with industry professionals, these students can see what a career in trades really looks like - and realise it's absolutely within reach. “Programs like this are helping to shift perceptions and build a more diverse, skilled workforce for the future.”
According to a paper on Women in Construction by Commnia, women account for 1.6 per cent of plumbers, 5.2 per cent of electricians, and 2.5 per cent of bricklayers and carpenters.
Media contact: Sarah Lievore, ɫֱCommunications Specialist, 02 7920 5000
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