Join us in this episode as we explore the extraordinary journey of Louise Azzopardi, a Gold Medalist and Heavy Vehicle Mechanic turned Life Coach. From a 15-year-old high school student with no intentions of pursuing higher education to becoming the first female to ever receive a Gold Medal in the Australian National Heavy Vehicle competition, Louise's story is one of determination, resilience, and triumph. We delve into her experiences as an apprentice, and her current role as a life coach, mentor and keynote speaker. Tune in to hear Louise's insights on navigating a male-dominated field, her advice for young women considering a trade career, and her vision for the future of women in trades in Australia.The project is funded under the grant program by Trade Pathways Program - Training Services NSW and produced in partnership with MIGAS Apprentices & Trainees.Now, if you're on the lookout for an apprenticeship opportunity, we've got a valuable resource for you. In the show notes, you'll find a link to MIGAS, where you can connect with them directly. They've been instrumental in helping thousands of tradies get qualified. At MIGAS, they understand the importance of creating positive work environments for female apprentices in Australia. They're experts in matching aspiring tradeswomen with trade businesses that foster inclusivity, respect, and growth.So, if you're ready to embark on your journey as a female apprentice, MIGAS is there to guide you every step of the way.

Join us on this special International Women’s Day episode of the WITS About Us Podcast, proudly presented by MIGAS Apprentices & Trainees.

In this empowering session, we sit down with the remarkable Teah Olsen, a trailblazer for women in trades. Teah's journey is nothing short of inspirational, having started as a Fitter and Turner Apprentice under the MIGAS programme, to becoming a recipient of the prestigious Women in Trades Scholarship. Her dedication and skill propelled her to the finals of the WorldSkills National Championship Australia, showcasing her exceptional talent on a national stage.

In 2024, Teah continues to make significant strides by contributing her insights and experiences to the Youth Employment Youth Advisory Group (DEWR) and serving as a MIGAS WITs Ambassador. Throughout the podcast, Teah shares her journey, the challenges she faced, and how she overcame them, offering invaluable advice for women aspiring to break into trades. Her story is a testament to the resilience and determination required to succeed in a male-dominated field.

The WITS About Us Podcast is dedicated to providing fresh thinking, real experiences, and stirring stories to inspire more women to consider and thrive in trade careers. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, this episode aims to empower, educate, and encourage women everywhere to pursue their passions, regardless of the industry. Tune in to hear Teah Olsen's inspiring story and learn how initiatives like MIGAS are making a difference in creating more inclusive workplaces.

Whether you're a woman considering a career in trades, an educator seeking to guide students, or simply someone who appreciates motivational journeys, this episode is for you. Let's celebrate the achievements of women in trades and support the journey towards a more inclusive industry.

This project is funded under the grant program by Trade Pathways Program - Training Services NSW.

Radmila Desic wants to live in a world where gender barriers in the trades are dismantled, and where every young person, regardless of background, has the opportunity to thrive in their chosen field.

As a trailblazing carpenter and joiner, and an advocate for women and youth in construction, she's been honoured as a Member of the Order of Australia and spotlighted for her significant contributions in various media outlets and government initiatives across Australia.

When she’s not breaking new ground in the construction industry or advocating for equal opportunities, you can find Radmila reminiscing about her early love for archaeology, or nurturing the next generation of tradespeople through mentoring and community involvement.

Her most impactful project — a dynamic initiative to empower women in trades — is continuing to create ripples of change in the industry.

Discover more about Radmila's journey in this podcast episode. If you're looking to find an apprenticeship, go to migas.com.au.

Welcome to our latest episode where we delve into the inspiring journey of a woman who has carved a niche for herself in the world of mechanical engineering.

This episode is not about the technicalities of mechanical fitting; it's a story of determination, resilience, and breaking barriers.This project is funded under the grant program by Trade Pathways Program - Training Services NSW.

Join MIGAS as we dive deep with top researchers, Assoc. Prof. Christina M. Scott-Young from RMIT University and Dr. Jessica Borg from the University of Melbourne are unravelling the untapped potential of women in traditional trades!

Key Topics We Explore:  👉🏼 The current landscape of women in trades, zooming in on construction.  Unveiling why women, a powerhouse of skills, remain an untapped trade resource.👉🏼 Apprenticeships: A golden key to addressing skills shortages. Breaking down historical and societal barriers faced by women in trades.👉🏼 Real stories & experiences of women navigating through the trades environment.👉🏼 Actionable steps towards an inclusive and welcoming trade sector Featuring insights from:  👉🏼 Assoc. Prof. Christina M. Scott-Young: A management research maven with a rich background in clinical psychology, specialising in women in construction, diversity, leadership, and workplace wellbeing.  👉🏼 Dr. Jessica Borg: A fervent lecturer and researcher focusing on the complexities of work environments, especially in construction, and a recipient of numerous awards for her impactful research. 🔥 We Discuss:  The role of apprenticeships, personal interests, family, friends, and media in shaping women’s career paths in trades🔥 Envisioning a future with balanced gender representation in traditional trades🔥 The anticipated benefits and successful case studies of increasing gender diversity in trades

In this episode, we're joined by Peta Skujins from Integrated Information Service.What the episode covers:   🛠 The Case for Trades: Why it's a viable and exciting option for young women today.   ❌ Myth-Busting: Addressing common misconceptions about careers in trades.   🤝 Supportive Networks: How parents and educators can effectively support aspirations in trades.   💪 Acquiring Unique Skills: The competencies trades offer that can set you apart in the professional world.   🌐 Future of Work: How trades are aligning with the evolving job market and what it means for you.   🔮 Looking Ahead: Predictions on the changing landscape of trades for women in the next decade.   🎓 Redefining Perceptions: AATIS's efforts in reshaping the narrative around trades vs. university paths.   ☀️ Creating Inclusive Spaces: Strategies to ensure women feel valued and included in the trades sector.   🚀 Guidance for the Future: Peta's advice for those considering a path in trades.  👨‍👩‍👧 For the Parents: Understanding the long-term value of trades for their daughters' futures. Join us for a look into the world of trades and discover the opportunities that await.The project is funded under the grant program by Trade Pathways Program - Training Services NSW and produced in partnership with MIGAS Apprentices & Trainees.  At MIGAS, we understand the importance of creating positive work environments for female apprentices in Australia. We can help match you with a trade business that fosters inclusivity, respect, and growth. So, if you're ready to embark on your journey as a female apprentice, we can guide you every step of the way.