Empowered Women in Trades is uniting the industry through dynamic networking events, fostering a connected and supportive community.
By Melinda Davis, COO of Empowered Women in Trades.
“Connection is why we’re here; it is what gives purpose and meaning to our lives.” – Brené Brown.
As humans, we have a deep-rooted need for connection in both our personal and professional lives. Whether it is a connection to other people or to our jobs, feeling connected gives us a sense of purpose and belonging.
Feeling like you are part of a community, team or group boosts your self-esteem and wellbeing. It helps establish relationships and friendships, and allows you to be part of something greater than yourself. When connection is missing, it can be isolating and negatively impact your wellbeing.
The Empowered Women in Trades (EWIT) team identified an opportunity to bring the trades community together to support the development of connection through our networking events held across Australia. In partnership with Apprenticeship Support Australia, we hosted two networking events in August in Smithfield, New South Wales, and Mile End, South Australia, that were attended by over 100 women, tradespeople and advocates for diversity in trades.
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Located at Bunnings, the events create a safe and welcoming space in the timber aisle. Brilliant people come together, grab something to eat and genuinely talk to each other. Conversations about your job and what you’re currently working on often evolve into discussions about shared interests, such as pets, hobbies and sports teams you follow. The noise levels rise, laughter begins and people experience a sense of connection.
Melbourne didn’t miss out, with a networking breakfast hosted at North Melbourne Football Club as part of the Freestyle Program. The intimate setting provided a great space to get to know new people while watching the sun rise over Arden Street. We heard from North Melbourne’s AFLW superstars Libby Birch and Jasmine Garner. Libby spoke about leadership through pioneering, encouraging everyone in the room to make a difference and challenge the norms. Jasmine shared insights into managing her AFLW career while completing her plumbing apprenticeship, demonstrating that nothing is impossible with the right people around you.
Each event also provides learning opportunities for attendees, as they always have a theme. Themes have included career development, looking after your wellbeing, introducing the women in trades specialists’ services delivered by Apprenticeship Support Australia, and ensuring physical safety. We often have members of the EWIT village on hand to showcase their expertise and promote their services. Providing information allows people to make informed choices, which is a key part of the EWIT ethos.
We have been hosting networking events for over 12 months, and they are gaining momentum. Great friendships have been formed, new employment opportunities have arisen and we’ve received positive feedback about how reassuring it is to know the village is there for them. Providing connection will help with the retention of great people across the construction, manufacturing and trade‑based industries.
To find out about our next networking events, keep in touch with the EWIT team on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook. We would love to see you there.