Female Tradies And Aspirants Deserve Recognition This Women’s Day
The quest for gender parity in workplaces, universities and in any leadership role continues to dominate in this day and age.
According to one study released by the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA), the participation rate of Australian women in the workforce reached 46.9 per cent in February 2018. 25.1 per cent of which are working full-time and 21.8 per cent are working part-time.
As the world recognises the celebration of International Women’s Day 2019 with a theme “Balance for Better,” we constantly acknowledge the achievement of our workwomen. Few of the aspects to innovate for equality advancement are social protection systems and sustainable infrastructure.
It’s within our knowledge that women aim to live in a world with no discrimination and harassment. Thus, this expectation stimulates their desire to excel in workplaces and society at large.
More Women Are Entering Into Physically Demanding Jobs
In line with this, aspiring female tradies are rising up from their position to alleviate the old mentality of male-dominated jobs such as builders and electricians.
That’s not to say that people are trying to switch the roles of men and women in society. Point is, career opportunities from building and construction industries are consistently increasing – both field and office work.
Having said that, the constant pursuit of respect and recognition among women is slowly taking them into non-traditional occupations.
In 2011, there were only 676 carpenters, 1,432 electricians and 638 plumbers working in Australia. Less than two per cent of these numbers are women.
However, news.com.au published an article that shows the decline in the number of females completing their apprenticeships. Independent company Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) made a report that highlights the downward slope of female aspirants in the construction industry.
The government also confirms the persistent deficiency of skilled work in electrical, carpentry, plumbing and construction industries in the labour market.
Make Way For Women On Trades
Exposing women in hands-on experience helps spur interest to enter the world of trades. This somehow minimises the effect of the only-men-can-do-trades mindset in the industry.
Employing women also resolves the shortage of skilled labour force and amplify the percentage of women completing apprenticeship training.
An electricity distribution company in Sydney has started to diversify its workforce to strengthen safety and innovation. Their apprentice and trainee development programs enable them to promote equality in the energy industry.
Although the involvement of women in the workforce helps to resolve the problem, introducing trade works in universities is vital. Conducting community programs that encourage them to step up and show off their potential should also be considered.
After all, a certified and experienced tradie is what clients are looking to hire – regardless of gender.
Balance, Not Domination
Perhaps if people will continue to strive for balance and not domination, the world will be better. Well, at least in terms of women obtaining efficient public services and a gender-balanced workforce, without being left out.
So if you know a female tradie around your area, why not take the time to recognise her presence and accomplishments? Whether she’s a veteran or just starting to explore in the trades business, it’s good to pay her due respect.
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