Jayde Randall said she had felt supported in a male-dominated workplace. Photo: Supplied.
Two young Tumut apprentices who are making waves in the male-dominated field of electrical work say they’d encourage other women to try a trade.
Chelsea Angus, 23, never envisioned herself creating circuits and running cables for Adelong’s Grant Bambling Electrical.
“When I was younger, I always thought that I would go to university or do a stereotypical female job like a receptionist or a hairdresser,” she said.
“But I didn’t see a reason to pay to get an education in a skill when I can get paid to get an education in a skill.”
After finishing school, she worked in project management for the local council and then for Visy in an office.
“I saw everyone down in the plant in action while I was at my desk and I thought I’d rather do that instead,” she said.
Chelsea Angus said she’d rather be paid than have to pay for university. Photo: Supplied.
By contrast, fourth-year apprentice Jayde Randall, 21, who works at the Talbingo Power Station with Snowy Hydro, always saw herself working outdoors.
“I’d had an interest in practical work and did a lot with my dad, who is a fitter and runs an irrigation business,” she said.
Both Ms Angus and Ms Randall are in workplaces where men outnumber women by as many as 10 to one. But neither feel intimidated.
“I used to feel that I had to prove myself, that I belonged in the job, but I’m now more confident so I don’t feel like that all,” Ms Randall said.
“I’m lucky because the guys have all been helpful and supportive.”
Ms Randall said her goal would be to become a protection technician, a role that ensures all systems and safeguards are working well.
“You have to program and code; I didn’t even know electricians did that,” she said.
Jayde’s job has taken her to new heights.
When asked what advice she’d give to girls considering a career in the trades, she didn’t hesitate.
“Go ahead and do it, it’s so worth it, and there’s so many opportunities to go further. You can go anywhere with it. No two days are the same,” she said.
Ms Angus agreed.
“If you’re open to getting out of your comfort zone, do it. If you don’t like it you can just try something else. But I’d say once you start it, you’ll love it,” she said.
During Women in Construction Week (1-7 March) and International Women’s Day (8 March), the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) has revealed the number of females in NSW enrolling in construction trades courses more than doubled in the five years to 2025.
TAFE NSW Executive Director of Teaching and Learning in Construction and Energy, Jennifer Perkins, a qualified electrician by trade, said increasing female participation benefited the industry.
“More women on worksites strengthens teams, boosts productivity and supports the long-term future of the industry,” she said.
