Students are able to explore several traditionally male-dominated trades including welding, construction, electrical, fabrication and automotive, and be provided with entry level skills.

Year 10 student Laura Porter expresses “I enjoyed learning new skills and getting a taste of each trade! The work experience part was very eye opening and a good way to test my skills and adaptability. I would say, I 100% recommend it…it is definitely a great experience for anyone who is interested in trades”

Girls Can Too includes; 5 days of hands-on training, 2 work ready sessions, industry tours, female guest speakers and work experience! Students get exposure to fun and hands-on practical activities, that are designed to equip you with real life experiences of working in trades!

The program in Wagga Wagga had 17 participants from Year 10 and Year 11 and 3 students have already been offered full time apprenticeships with employers they met through the program!

“It helped me get the job I have now, as I made connections though the program! I also was able to gain a certificate of completion for my resume” Says Year 11 student, Mackenna Lange.

Other students like Alyesha Rockliff from Kildare Catholic College said, “The program definitely helped me make a better decision about my career path, even though I’m not going into a trade it was a very fun experience and gave me lots of options for my future!”

Industry partners include: RIC Electrics, Precision Signs, Byrnes Trailers, Intersales, Transgrid, Laser Electrical, Irons Builders, Squad, T-Line Steel, Wagga Motors, Riverina Home Centre, CLAAS Harvest Centre, Rex Airlines, AC Electrics, Blake Richards Building, Thomas Bros, Riverina Water, Codemo Machinery, O’Reilly Trucks, Snowy Hydro, GEA Electrical.

TAFE NSW delivered the trade sessions and the work ready sessions are delivered by Squad, a local group training organisation who linked students with host employers in each field. The industry partners provided site visits, work experience, mentoring and guest speakers to further give industry validated career information.

“The best part of the program was getting to spend the day with female tradies and talk to them about what they like about their job and their experiences” - Chelsea Purcell, Year 10 student.

To learn more, visit the Regional Industry Education Partnerships (RIEP) - connecting schools and business web page.