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Three women from different walks of life have found success and a renewed sense of purpose, thanks to a groundbreaking trade program creating opportunities for apprenticeships across Victoria.
AGA apprentices, Lilu Lacey-Myers, Indi Stanley, and Morgan Jenkins, recently completed the Tradie Bootcamp, a program of the Lendlease LEAD initiative, delivered in partnership with Box Hill Institute’s Big Skills for Big Build.
This targeted initiative connects women to construction apprenticeships on major infrastructure projects throughout Victoria, helping them break into a field traditionally dominated by men.
Over the two-week intensive program, participants gain real-world skills through hands-on trade training, safety education, personal development workshops, and construction site tours. It also connects them with mentors and current apprentices to support their transition into the workforce.
Now, all three women are equipped to begin their first commercial site placements.
After an ADHD diagnosis excluded her from joining the Navy, Lilu Lacey-Myers turned her drive for physical, purposeful work towards a new direction: an electrical apprenticeship.
Already trained as a lifeguard and swim coach, Lilu was no stranger to physically demanding roles. After completing a pre-apprenticeship in electrotechnology, she was encouraged to take part in Tradie Bootcamp.
“I was sceptical at first because I don’t like drawing attention to being a woman in trade. However, I really enjoyed the program and made some great friendships with other girls starting their apprenticeships. We’ll be going through the next four years together. It was also interesting to visit some sites. I’m glad I did it.”
Though Lilu prefers the conversation to focus on skill rather than gender, she values the support network of women in trades.
“I think women in trades shouldn’t be a big thing. We shouldn’t have to keep highlighting our presence—it should just be normal.”
Lilu now continues her electrical apprenticeship, committed to contributing to her team, mastering her trade, and encouraging others to follow their path based on ability and interest, not stereotypes.
At just 19, Indi Stanley is navigating two demanding commitments: her first year in an electrical apprenticeship and playing reserves football for the Victorian Football League Women’s (VFLW).
Coming from a family of tradies, Indi felt at home in the industry but still appreciated the foundational knowledge and confidence the Tradie Bootcamp gave her.
“The program really made me feel more comfortable,” she said. “It’s not just about the technical skills. It was invaluable in helping me understand what it’s like to be on a construction site. We learned how to handle different situations and who to reach out to for support, and we visited three large construction sites, which was incredibly eye-opening.”
Now actively learning on the job, Indi is proof that young women can thrive in electrical apprenticeships while pursuing other passions.
After earning a Bachelor of Teaching and spending five years in finance, Morgan Jenkins realised she needed a more active, hands-on career. Morgan highlighted the importance of supportive programs for women in trades. That search led her to a carpentry apprenticeship, where she found a perfect match.
“I asked myself, ‘What job allows me to be active every day, where I can use my hands, and isn’t office work?’”
Though she began in domestic carpentry, Morgan faced hurdles breaking into the commercial construction sector—until she completed Tradie Bootcamp, supported by AGA.
“Commercial construction offers so much more variety and growth than I expected. The program gave me the right tools, connections, and confidence to make the leap.”
Now in her second year of a carpentry apprenticeship, Morgan is thriving on commercial job sites and values the connection to other women navigating the same space.
“This new job feels much more supportive. There are other women on site, which is something I’ve never experienced before.”
“Being able to ask the girls who had already completed the course about their time on site was really valuable. They were happy to share their insights, and it was a great opportunity to connect with others.”
Andrew Micallef, AGA Field Officer and Team Leader says programs like Tradie Bootcamp are crucial in supporting the next generation of women entering construction apprenticeships.
“As more women pursue careers in fields traditionally dominated by men, initiatives like these provide critical resources to help them succeed and thrive,” said Andrew.
“The Tradie Bootcamp not only equips participants with technical skills, but also builds their confidence and resilience. It’s about creating a supportive environment where women can feel safe, valued, and empowered to pursue their dreams in the construction industry. We are proud to be one of only three Group Training Organisations (GTOs) in Victoria delivering this program.”
AGA is part of the IntoWork Group and plays a key role in placing women into meaningful roles across various trades, including carpentry apprenticeships and electrical apprenticeships.
