Empowered Women in Trades

Women only represent 3% of tradespeople in Australia. That’s an alarming statistic, and one that Empowered Women in Trades (EWIT) is aiming to address through its innovative programs.

The team, led by Founding Director Hacia Atherton, is on a mission to raise that 3% figure to 30% by 2030, by empowering women to make an informed choice about entering Australia’s most male-dominated industry.

Its immersive programs open up pathways and support women into meaningful careers within skilled trades in construction and manufacturing.

EWIT has a strong focus on providing all kinds of opportunities for young women who are interested in a skilled trade - from hands-on tool days trying different trades to see what they have an affinity for, to specialised programs where women of all ages can learn on-site, earn their white card, and find an apprenticeship. All of EWIT’s programs are supported by a community of tradie women who have lived experience and support those considering a career.

Beyond supporting women looking to enter the skilled trade workforce, Empowered Women in Trades is tackling the problem from both sides, running programs for employers so they can prepare to welcome what is often their first female into their workplace.

Founding Director Hacia Atherton said that while the under-representation of women in skilled trades is a huge problem to address, the Empowered Women in Trades team is excited to tackle the issue day by day, woman by woman.

“Only 3% of female tradies on the job were encouraged to consider a skilled trade by their family, career counsellors or school, so most women who start a career in trades do so at a later point in life, which is a real challenge.

“This is despite the fact that the average wage for women across Australia (in any role), is ten thousand dollars less than the wage of a first-year qualified electrician. Trades offer fantastic and lucrative career opportunities for women,” she said.

Empowered Women in Trades was celebrated for its work as the recipient of the 2024 Telstra Best of Business Awards Victoria Accelerating Women Award.