Women in trades are nailing it

The ping of nail guns and the drone of handheld drills could be heard as busloads of young wāhine from around the maunga made their way around TET Stadium in Inglewood getting a taste of trade careers for the Women in Trades event.

“We know women make up less than five percent of tradespeople and there have never been more opportunities for a more rewarding career in the trades than now for women,” says organiser and WITT Work-based Learning Lead Katrina Mayo.

WITT was one of 23 exhibitors showcasing training pathways for trades including painting and plastering, automotive, scaffolding and mechanical engineering.

“We wanted to show the different trades and their career paths and how to get started, including scholarships and financial assistance,” says Katrina.

During the panel discussion, hosted by emcee Brodie Kane and featuring Katie Bollond Taranaki Electrical Services, Hayley Smith Taranaki Roofing, Keely Feaver Methanex, Kimberly de Vries Fulton Hogan, Lakein Cottam First Gas Clarus, attendees got to hear all about the challenges and opportunities of a career in the trades.

“Young women need to see themselves reflected in the speakers and representatives and they got to hear firsthand from some amazing wāhine working in different trades and at various stages of their careers.”

If you missed the event but like problem-solving, enjoy being active and have an interest in how thing are built or made, perhaps a career in the trades is for you?

Find out more about trades courses here

Pictured is Angela Ferguson - Deputy Director of the School of Trades Training, Primary and Creative Industries