Women’s story’s

Ange – Diesel Mechanic:

 Ange is a fourth-year apprentice diesel mechanic with Fire Rescue Victoria. As the eldest of twelve, she grew up in New Zealand before her family migrated to Australia to work as fruit pickers and laborers. Determined to build a better life, Ange faced cultural barriers and family expectations that women should focus on unpaid work at home. Her decision to enter a male-dominated trade was a "culture shock" to her family. Despite this, Ange is proving that women belong in trades and inspires others, including her sister, who has also started an apprenticeship, to follow her path.

Ana – Boilermaker:

Ana’s journey into fabrication began at a 'Try-a-Trade' night hosted by Women Onsite and the AMWU. At 38, a single mother of four, she discovered a passion for welding and saw a pathway to a more stable career. After completing a welding short course, Ana secured an apprenticeship at Bucher Municipal. Her background in construction gave her a solid foundation, but welding offered the hands-on work and growth she was looking for.

“I absolutely love welding,” she says. Her talent was quickly recognised, and she's now aiming to become a welding inspector. Ana has enrolled in a leadership course to expand her skills.

Her kids have cheered her on every step of the way. The road hasn’t been easy, but Ana’s persistence paid off. She now hopes to inspire other women to back themselves and take the leap. “We’re capable of striving for better opportunities,” she says.