Kira William’s interest in construction started early, but it wasn’t until she did the 2022 Ginninderry SPARK JobTrainer ATC Women in Construction Program that her construction journey really took off. When Kira was in year 10, she wanted to undertake construction, but the VET course at school was full. Determined to pursue her interest, Kira applied to do the Australian Training Company (ATC) Women in Construction Pathways Program (ASbA). She thoroughly enjoyed it and got to try a range of trades through placements with employers.
2020 was a difficult year for Kira, like many of us, as the COVID pandemic had a significant impact on day-to-day life. During this year, Kira also faced some significant personal and work-related challenges. The uncertainty of things led her to realise that this was not the right time to be making long-term decisions about future pathways. Kira took a break from construction work to prioritise family. Determined to keep connected to the industry, she took a job with Mitre 10, where she still works as a weekend manager.
By 2022, Kira was wanting to return to construction work, so she reached out to ATC for opportunities. Karyn Hunter, Account Manager with ATC said, “It was perfect timing, we were excited to share with Kira this great opportunity that would link her to a potential traineeship”.
Kira completed the Ginninderry SPARK JobTrainer ATC Women in Construction Program in 2022. This fully funded six-week program gave 15 women an opportunity to see what working in the construction industry might be like. In partnership with the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) and Creative Safety Initiatives (CSI), the program delivered a combination of theory, practical hands-on learning, site tours and work preparation sessions, and participants completed 14 units of competencies related to construction.
“Kira’s confidence and self-belief grew through the pre-employment program,” Karyn said.
“The program was great,” said Kira. “I got to meet lots of new people and build friendships with the other girls. We have our own network now and we all lean on each other for support. ATC worked closely with me to find positions and jobs for after the program.”
Kira went on to complete a traineeship with ATC and Lendlease, during which she realised carpentry was the apprenticeship she was looking for. Kira is now working fulltime with Quattro undertaking a Commercial Carpentry Apprenticeship. She loves each day, and the team at Quattro enjoy the dry humour and wit she brings with her on site.
During her journey, Kira has had access to many mentors and role models and feels lucky that most of them were females. These programs are unique in that they offer wraparound support during every part of the journey.
“Whenever I had a struggle in my life, during the program, or at work, I have always been supported. I had someone to listen and prioritise what I needed,” she said.
Kira’s biggest takeaway from the program was that whenever she needed support, ATC or SPARK were there to advocate for her in the workplace.
“I always felt welcome and comfortable to reach out anytime. They found a way to help me get to where I want to be,” Kira said.
Mel Lyons, Employment and Education Program Coordinator with UnitingCare Kippax said, “We are thrilled to be partnering with so many amazing stakeholders to deliver this 2023 Lendlease Women in Construction Initiative. Women and gender-diverse people are greatly under-represented in the Australian construction industry and this program provides the perfect opportunity for people like Kira, who are keen to find their own pathway into construction.”
If you are interested in participating in a similar program, the Lendlease Women in Construction Initiative might be the opportunity for you. An information session will be held on Thursday 26 October at the CIT Bruce Campus.
To book a place and check your eligibility, contact Mel on 0433 958 670 or [email protected]
