A collaboration between AGA (part of the IntoWork Group) and the Lendlease LEAD initiative is helping prepare women for a successful transition into apprenticeships and careers in the construction industry.

The two-week program offers exclusive exposure to major infrastructure projects across Victoria, introducing aspiring apprentices to a workplace environment traditionally dominated by men. Participants gain real-world skills through hands-on trade training, safety education, personal development workshops and construction site tours. The program also provides opportunities to connect with mentors and peers, helping participants build professional networks and confidence as they begin their trade careers.

For the past three years, Tradie Bootcamp has supported more than 35 women to explore careers in construction, helping build workplace resilience and instil confidence in the lead-up to their first days on the tools.

Alegra Weber is a few weeks into her electrotechnology apprenticeship and says the Bootcamp gave her valuable insight into what to expect on a construction site.

“It was exciting to see first-hand the scale of construction,” she said. “It was daunting but exciting at the same time to see how big the projects are that some of us will be working on.”

Alegra also said that one of the most valuable aspects of the program was the opportunity to meet and connect with other women pursuing similar career paths.

“It was really useful creating a connection with the girls before getting stuck into our apprenticeships. That’s probably the key takeaway, I think, and something they were really trying to encourage. Creating a social network by meeting other girls so we can chat to them and lean on each other, in a way.”

Apprentice and Employment Services Manager at AGA, Andrew Micallef says it’s a critical time for the construction sector to be encouraging more women to consider a trade. He says programs like the Tradie Bootcamp give aspiring apprentices a chance to see that they do belong on the worksite and that they are a valuable asset to the industry.

“Some of these women are just ready to jump straight into the workplace, boots and all,” he said. “But for others, the Bootcamp helps them feel more ready to step onto a construction site for the first time. They get the chance to chat with their peers in the lead up to work and to pick the brains of experienced workers who know the industry inside out.”

“Lendlease have been big advocates for women working in non-traditional trades. This year has been great to see Fredon Electrical participate with not 1 but 2 participants, with both Alegra and Molly undertaking their electrical apprenticeships”.

“It’s an awesome initiative and a great opportunity for these women to kickstart a rewarding and meaningful career.”