19 August 2024
A new program is harnessing the expertise of the women doing great things in building and construction today, championing those who will help lead the industry into the future.
Master Builders’ Emerging Women in Construction (EWIC) program will deliver access to support and advice from experienced industry mentors and advisors, utilising funding awarded by the Queensland Government’s Department of Employment, Small Business and Training (DESBT).
EWIC will consist of a tailored training program, events, and webinars, while a dedicated online community will connect women in the industry. A mentoring program will deliver a mix of face-to-face and online support, with a helpline for on-demand advice from employment and wages experts.
The program has been designed to aid female building and construction apprentices in their first, second or third year wherever they are in Queensland. Employers will also be encouraged to back their female apprentices to take part and join in the training and webinars themselves.
Influential and experienced women working in the industry are being encouraged to sign up to support and advise those who will follow in their footsteps. Mentors will also include some of the existing Master Builders Industry Champions from across the state, building on their existing work promoting the sector as a valuable career path.
Master Builders Deputy CEO Sue-Ann Fresneda said the multi-faceted EWIC program was designed to be a one-stop shop.
“We want to support female apprentices on their journey by providing a safe space for them to engage with peers and other successful women in the industry, fostering a sense of community, as well as practical advice designed to navigate their careers and keep them in the industry,” Sue-Ann said.
“As we find ourselves in the middle of a housing crisis, compounded by a labour shortage, it’s crucial we not only attract more skilled workers, but retain them by setting them up with the best possible start in their careers, shoring up and growing our industry for the future.
“EWIC will not only open the dialogue but keep the conversation flowing. We need to improve the lived work experience of female apprentices and shift the conversation to one of greater inclusion for women, now and in the longer term.
“I encourage all female apprentices to visit www.mbqld.com.au/emergingwomen and be a part of this valuable program. We are excited about the opportunity to walk alongside you as you embark on your future in our fantastic industry.”
Queensland’s Minister for Employment and Small Business and Minister for Training and Skills Development Lance McCallum said there has never been a better time to get into Queensland’s construction industry.
“With Queensland’s Big Build of housing, hospitals, clean energy, and infrastructure underway we want more women at the front of the queue for the high-paid hi-vis careers on offer,” Minister McCallum said.
“We want to make sure women are well supported at work, to complete their apprenticeship and continue their rewarding careers in construction and inspire a new generation of young women to get started in the industry.
“From Free Construction Apprenticeships to Free Tools for First Years and Set for Success to the Women in Trades Mentoring Program, the Miles Labor Government is doing everything we can to give Queenslanders the best possible pathway to a career in the industry.”
To learn more and get involved in the EWIC program, visit www.mbqld.com.au/emergingwomen.
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