TAFE NSW Kempsey and Kempsey Shire Council are uniting forces to encourage women across the Macleay Valley to pursue careers in male-dominated industries with new Try a Trade short courses.

Try a Trade courses are available to women who are interested in learning practical trade skills to experience  what it is like to work in a non-traditional female career. The two-week course includes training in civil and construction at TAFE NSW Kempsey in addition to one week work experience with Kempsey Shire Council.

In addition to being a taster, this course will assist students in gaining employment in carpentry and civil construction roles. Students will learn the basics of construction by getting their hands dirty when they build a bird house with power tools. They will be certified with a Statement of Attainment in Prepare to Work Safely in the Construction industry – Whitecard, which is a requirement for work on most job sites.

TAFE NSW Civil Construction Head Teacher John Richardson said the new focus on trade was a positive step for women who are considering their career options.

“We know there is a strong commitment by the government to promote major infrastructure projects, this is a very positive thing for job seekers.

“Construction projects are booming so areas like civil construction, road construction and maintenance and, building construction are great for apprentices.”

With the first cohort to commence work experience with Kempsey Shire Council next month, students will be given the opportunity to gain insight in parks and gardens through shadowing a senior horticulturist and assisting with garden beautification and weeding. Alongside the roads and drainage team, students will be assisting to maintain roads and fix potholes.

“I have no doubt many women will enjoy the work experience and I know some of them will choose to pursue a trade as a career option once they get the opportunity to experience the industry,” said Mr Richardson.

The Try a Trade course intake is 30 August 2021. For more information about this and a wide range of other TAFE NSW courses, please visit www.tafensw.com.au or call 131 601.