How industry came together to support women in trades in Victoria

Delivered in partnership with Master Plumbers and Mechanical Services Association of Australia and the Plumbing Industry Climate Action Centre (PICAC), and supported by Empowered Women in Trades (EWIT) Group Australia, the event showcased the power of collaboration in strengthening trade pathways and creating more inclusive opportunities for women.

Held in late March, the afternoon event provided a relaxed and welcoming environment for attendees to build meaningful connections, exchange insights and hear firsthand stories from women working across a range of trade industries.

The event featured an inspiring line up of speakers and panel participants, alongside mentors and industry representatives who shared their personal journeys and perspectives on driving cultural change and building sustainable, inclusive workforces.

Guest speakers included Tania Clarke, Project Director of the Building Women's Careers Program at PICAC, Ann Boyle, Site Supervisor at Alchemy Construct, and Jasmine Mishra, National Education Partnership Manager at EWIT.

A highlight of the afternoon was hearing from Charlotte Richardson, a first year school based automotive technician apprentice undertaking a Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology. Charlotte attended the event with her grandparents, Jenni and Rod, who travelled more than three hours from Camperdown to be there.

The moment served as a powerful reminder of the strong family and community support networks behind many women entering non traditional careers.

Also contributing to the event were Rachel Phillipson, Women in Trade Mentor, and Megan Trigg, ASA Manager Mentoring and Personal Support Services, who spoke with attendees about the importance of encouragement, advocacy and practical support for apprentices navigating the early stages of their training.

ASA extended its thanks to all event partners – EWIT Group Australia, Master Plumbers and Mechanical Services Association of Australia, and PICAC – as well as the speakers and attendees who helped create a space for open conversation and shared learning.

ASA Victorian General Manager, Engagement and Technical Support, Jarrod Cartwright said: “It was fantastic to see women at different stages of their careers openly sharing stories, insights and experiences from across the trades.

"The strength of these networks, and the support behind them, is critical to helping women start, stay and succeed in trade careers."

The Women in Trade networking event reinforced ASA’s ongoing commitment to supporting women, strengthening industry connections and championing diversity across Australia’s trades workforce. Contact us to find out more how we can help you.