Encouraging equity one event at a time

Only 13% of tradespeople identify as female, and of that group, only 2.6% are on the tools. Over 22,000 women have lost their jobs due to COVID-19, and we’re during an unprecedented skills shortage in the trades. As part of our kaupapa to support more women to join the construction sector, we are involved in some fantastic free events happening this month:

Tuesday 27 Sept 12:30-2:30 pm TradeCareers: Women in Trades Workshop and Networking Event, Riccarton Centre, Christchurch  

Tuesday 27 Sept 3-7 pm Women in Trades Conference, Air Force Museum of New Zealand, Christchurch  

The Women in Trades conferences are run by “Women in Trades”, a volunteer-run organisation that promotes the trades as a viable career path for women. TradeCareers has a stand at both conferences. There will also be a range of other trades, employers and educators with “give it a go” activities and information regarding education and employment. Attendees will hear from an inspiring experienced tradeswoman, interact with a lively panel of trades gurus, and learn the next steps to undertake trades training and careers.

At the workshop and networking event in Christchurch, which is held just prior to the conference, attendees will have the opportunity to:  

• Learn all about the different career options available in the trades and investigate which trade is right for them.  
• Learn how to identify and amplify transferable skills.  
• Pick up some techniques to build strength.  

• Hear from some inspiring women in the trades who are out there doing it. 

tradecareers.co is a co-sponsored project between Waihanga Ara Rau and Hanga-Aro-Rau Workforce Development Councils.