By embracing diversity, Australian workplaces are not only promoting a culture of equality but also reaping the benefits of a broader and more adaptable set of skills. Traditionally male dominated trades are finding that a better gender balance can bring an increase in innovation, improved problem-solving and better financial outcomes. Apprenticeships provide the ideal pathway for women to enter and thrive in trade careers that have long been dominated by men.
We’re thrilled to share the stories of two remarkable apprentices who are making their mark on a significant government contract in Henderson, WA.
Georgia Blackshaw – Apprentice Plant Mechanic
After a short stint in retail followed by six months working in the mines, 19-year-old Georgia Blackshaw decided to pursue a qualification that would pave the way towards a more fulfilling career. Now one year into her Plant Mechanic apprenticeship, she is thriving.
Georgia always had a passion for fixing engines and understanding how things work. When she saw an advertisement for the apprenticeship through Skill Hire, she jumped at the opportunity to get the qualification and kickstart her career.
Not only is Georgia loving learning the tricks of her trade, but she feels like she’s building the confidence to one day go back to the mines – fully qualified and with strong career prospects.
Georgia says she feels well supported by her colleagues, particularly her Apprentice Employment Consultant, Geoff Parsons. “I’m so glad I chose to apply for the apprenticeship through Skill Hire. I love the people and I feel like I’m definitely on the right path,” Georgia said.
Outside of work, Georgia loves camping, the outdoors and working on her old Nissan Prado. She’s grateful to have been given the opportunity to do what she loves and to begin shaping her own future.
Shanarlah Pickett – Apprentice Boilermaker and Welder.
After putting her career on hold to raise her two sons, 27-year-old Shanarlah Picket decided to take the leap and apply for a Boilermaking and Welding apprenticeship through Skill Hire.
An employee of Civmec in Henderson, Shanarlah chose shipbuilding because of her passion for heavy industry and we’re proud to share that she was nominated as a finalist for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Apprentice of the Year Award at this year’s Apprentice and Employment Network awards.
Having stepped out of her comfort zone and now eight months into her apprenticeship, Shanarlah has grown in confidence and is learning more about her trade every day. She’s keen to absorb as much as possible and encourages other women to give a trade a go. “It might be something you really like and is definitely worth the effort,” she said.
A proud Yamatji woman, Shanarlah remains connected with her community, sharing her progress with younger family members and encouraging them to consider trade pathways rather than leaving school early without direction.
Shanarlah highly recommends Skill Hire and appreciates the invaluable mentorship and support she receives. She particularly enjoys the guidance she gets from her Apprentice Employment Consultant, Geoff Parsons who she says is ‘very reassuring and approachable’.
Shanarlah is a curious student and has already built a strong network of friends across her workplace. Looking ahead, Shanarlah is keen to explore the many different experiences her trade has to offer and hopes her work will lead her to new and unique adventures. Her ambition is to progress into a supervisory role, where she can mentor new apprentices and advocate for greater female and Aboriginal participation in heavy industry.
We’re so proud of both Sharnalah and Georgia and look forward to following their journey as they pursue their career aspirations.