Construcciones Yamaro: ForgeHer program empowers women to thrive in trades
Empowered Women in Trades’ ForgeHer pathways program gave women in the Albury–Wodonga region hands-on trade experience, practical skills and lasting confidence.
By Melinda Davis, general manager of Empowered Women in Trades.
Impact. It is the Empowered Women in Trades (EWIT) word. Every decision made or action taken comes back to impact: what impact can this have for women and the industry we support? Our programs are designed for maximum impact – encouraging pathways into trades and empowering women by building confidence, belief and belonging, while also helping them develop new skills and explore career opportunities.
With impact in mind, we had the pleasure of heading to the Albury-Wodonga region to deliver a transformative two-day ForgeHer pathways program in partnership with CVGT Employment and Wodonga TAFE. There was something different about this program – we all felt it.
Over two days, 10 participants stepped outside their comfort zones and into the world of trades – many for the first time. Guided by Wodonga TAFE’s skilled and engaging trainers, we gained hands-on experience in electrical, carpentry, plumbing and cabinetmaking. The level of energy, curiosity and courage on display was truly inspiring.
Having access to resources such as the Skills and Jobs Centres – a Victorian Government initiative – to support participants and provide wraparound services is a game changer. The team joined us to deliver an impactful session on résumé writing and interview preparation, equipping participants not just with practical trade skills, but with the tools to pursue real job opportunities.
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Sarah and Jess from Hadar and Maive from Twin City Cabinets provided an important connection to industry through authentic stories, wisdom and encouragement that resonated deeply. For many attendees, hearing real-life success stories from women in trades lit a spark – proof that the path is possible.
Why do programs like this matter? At EWIT, we say it often: “You can’t be what you can’t see.”
Several participants arrived hesitant, unsure and unaware that a trade career could even be an option. But over two days, we witnessed remarkable transformations. With support from the EWIT team, we saw confidence grow. Women who came as strangers left as friends. Women who couldn’t make eye contact left with their heads held high. And women who felt like they couldn’t do anything realised how capable they truly are.
And if that isn’t already enough, three of the 10 participants have already enrolled in the Certificate II in Electrotechnology at Wodonga TAFE, which started in June. That’s more than enrolments – it’s lives changed.
Don’t take our word for it – hear what program participants had to say:
- “I can do it. I don’t have to be afraid anymore. I can step up and do what I want.”
- “Hearing from Sarah inspired me to follow her lead and be happy.”
- “It showed me that women can do anything they want.”
These reflections say it all. Programs like this aren’t just career tasters – they’re moments of possibility, identity and empowerment.
The ForgeHer program was made possible through the generous support of a CVGT Community Grant, and we are sincerely grateful. These grants allow us to reach more communities and change more lives – and we could not do it without this backing. At EWIT, we are proud to be shaping pathways, breaking barriers and supporting women to thrive in trades. This program in Albury-Wodonga was a perfect example of what’s possible when industry, education and community come together.
Here’s to more experiences like this – and to making an impact around the country. #ittakesavillage
The post ForgeHer program empowers women to thrive in trades appeared first on Inside Construction.
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