More Australian women are entering construction trades through career changes, reflecting a steady shift in one of the country’s most male dominated industries. Job security, strong demand and clear career pathways are drawing women to the trades, often later in life.

One example is Hayley Miles, who spent more than a decade running a hairdressing business before retraining as a carpenter in her early 30s. Swapping scissors for power tools, she completed her apprenticeship and now works in the timber industry, running her own carpentry business. While the transition required short term financial sacrifice, it delivered long term independence and stability.

Hayley’s experience reflects broader industry trends. Female enrolments in construction trade courses have increased significantly in recent years, with women now accounting for a growing share of apprentices and trainees. Many are mature age entrants who were never encouraged to consider construction careers when they left school.

According to Jennifer Perkins, Executive Director of Teaching and Learning for Construction and Energy at TAFE NSW, the change is becoming increasingly visible in training environments. A former electrician herself, Perkins notes that women now make up a substantial portion of some trade classrooms, a sharp contrast to earlier decades when female tradespeople were rare.

Ongoing workforce shortages are accelerating this shift. With strong demand for housing and infrastructure, the construction industry is widening its recruitment efforts and recognising the value of attracting talent from across the entire population. Mentoring, improved workplace culture and greater visibility of women in trades are helping support retention.

For career changers like Hayley Miles, construction offers practical, skilled work with clear long term opportunities. As more women retrain, qualify and establish themselves in trade roles, the industry continues to move toward a more inclusive and resilient future, shaped by skill, experience and commitment rather than tradition.

Read the full article here: ABC News