Small build offers big future

WITH power tools in-hand, seventeen of Phoenix College’s female students were recently tasked with building a little house as they took part in a trade career workshop.

Led by Highlands LLEN, the practical learning and information session aimed to encourage girls to explore a non-traditional trade career pathway, reduce the stigma around women in trades, and on worksites, and promote equality, inclusion and diversity.

Highlands LLEN structured workplace learning and program coordinator Polly Britten said 80 percent of participants aspired to a trade career at the conclusion of the workshop.

“This really gives students an indication of where they are going or where they could go in the future, and what career pathways are out there as far as opportunities go,” she said.

Students heard from guest speakers including women working in trade careers, and Women’s Health Grampians representatives, were able to take home some personal protective gear, but most importantly, gained carpentry skills for life.

“In a few hours, they’ve gone from pieces of wood, to a mini house that is fully framed, has four walls up and a roof built with windows installed,” Ms Britten said.

The mini house they constructed is set to be donated to Phoenix College’s primary school campus.

The hands-on workshop was delivered in partnership with Women’s Health Grampians, Platinum Training Institute Australia and Harris HMC.