Annalise Van Donk of Narara is a true Girl of Steel, having secured a machinery fitter apprenticeship with UGL Engineering after graduating from the Skill Engineer’s Girls of Steel program.
Van Donk excelled in the program, completing both the theoretical and practical components in just 12 weeks to complete her training with outstanding results.
The program integrates training with job skills, aiming for employment upon completion.
It includes a Certificate II in Engineering and involves hands-on projects such as manufacturing park furniture, sculptures, trailers, signposts and bespoke items.
The Skill Engineer offers hands-on practical work at its Kariong workshop, while Registered Training Organisation (RTO) InTech Institute of Technology provides the theoretical component and access to the online learning portal for the knowledge components.
“I learned and reinforced theory through practical work,” Van Donk said.
“I started with simple projects like a phone holder and a fire pit, then moved on to creating a Batman boomerang and a coffee table.
“Welding is great fun – playing with fire is always exciting.
“I enjoy working with power tools and building my confidence.
“The course offers freedom to design what you want and is incredibly supportive, especially for women with diverse skills.
“As someone with a disability, I’ve found the environment to be fantastic.”
The Girls of Steel program is designed to address gender-based disparities in traditionally male-dominated trades.
According to a recent Engineers Australia report, women face significant disadvantages in the workplace, with 55 per cent of female engineers reporting fewer professional opportunities than their male counterparts.
Despite three-quarters of female engineers feeling they could “be themselves” at work, one in three indicated they felt pressured to conform to male norms.
Additionally, about 20 per cent reported experiencing workplace bullying or exclusion.
The Girls of Steel program, which receives referrals from its partnering provider Wise Employment and is supported by the Workforce Australia Local Jobs Local Recovery Fund, aims to dismantle barriers and empower women to succeed in non-traditional trades.
For more information contact Charlotte Dickie on 0432 806 041 or at charlotte.dickie@theskillengineer.com.au