A new program to encourage female students to explore trades as a career has been launched at TAFE SA’s Tonsley Campus.
Aimed at giving participants the chance to explore trades traditionally dominated by males, the all-female Try A Trade Program is to be run in consultation with the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and will cover carpentry, tiling, painting and decorating and White Card activities over four days.
Premier, Steven Marshall said the program was an opportunity for young women to try out some skills that were highly sought after in South Australia.
“There is huge demand for qualified workers from companies looking to take full advantage of the opportunities on offer, so it’s a fantastic time to be considering a career in building and construction,” Mr Marshall said.
Minister for Education, John Gardner said the Program also enabled participants, from high schools involved in the doorways2construction Vocational Education and Training (VET) Program, to familiarise themselves with TAFE SA facilities and learn more about training opportunities.
Chief Executive of TAFE SA, David Coltman said the training provider was pleased to be working with the CITB to offer the Try A Trade Program.
“Try A Trade is an interactive way for students to find out more about the industry and get an idea of the skills involved,” Mr Coltman said.
“Our aim is to increase the number of female apprentices and trainees to ensure there is a diverse and well-trained workforce for the state’s current and future jobs,” he said.
Mr Coltman said the top five courses for female participation at Tonsley were the Diploma of Interior Design; Certificate IV in Interior Decoration; Diploma of Building Design; Certificate IV in Building Design Drafting; and Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician.
