Women In Trades Wednesday- Holly Antrobus

Holly Antrobus is an apprentice technician at Toyota, she has been in her role for almost a year. From the day she finished high school, she has been on the path to becoming a qualified mechanic. Holly left school and went straight to UCOL to begin a year-long pre-apprenticeship course in automotive engineering, while working part-time at her local Subway. Of this experience she says “I was challenged by studying alongside the other candidates who were trying to get the same kind of position I landed with my job at Toyota”

Holly is currently completing her training with MITO, and secured her job through her old neighbour, who also works at Toyota. Her work days currently involve servicing vehicles, along with fitting accessories for new vehicles.

What does Holly love most about her trade? “Getting up in the morning and being able to work on cars- which I’ve had an overall passion for ever since I can remember. I was inspired to choose an automotive trade by my Grandfather, who owns a vintage car collection.”

While Holly states she is thankful to be in the position she is today, on this path studying for her apprenticeship, her future career goals include: “To be a boss of my own workshop with female technicians!”

Some things Holly wishes she had known when she started? “That it’s okay not to know everything from the beginning, because each day you’ll learn something new and that’s how you get real skills-through experience” Along with this, she has learned quickly about working in a traditionally masculine space, and the importance of a positive work culture: “My job has definitely taught me that everyone’s equal- being in a mainly male dominated industry and being so welcomed, while being the only female technician at my work is something I really appreciate.”

What tips and advice does Holly have for others looking to get into an automotive career? “I honestly recommend the pre apprenticeship course that UCOL has to offer. I found it was such a great start in this career, and it would be a very educational start to get your foot in the door for your apprenticeship. It’s always good to have a trade qualification under your belt, so I would highly recommend getting any trade career if you can. I hope more women get into some sort of trade, as we need more girls in these industries!”

Alongside her apprenticeship, Holly has accumulated a lot of certificates attending Nga Tawa Diocesan school- such as royal surf life-saving achievements and barista courses which she feels will come in handy throughout her life.

Women In Trades Wednesday- Kate Cawkwell

Kate Cawkwell is a third year Electrical apprentice working at Fonterra and studying through Open Polytechnic.

A trade career wasn’t originally in her sights, though family members in the electrical industry inspired Kate to give it a go. She explains to WIT how beginning a medical degree ended up a turning point into entering a trade apprenticeship: “I previously went to university to do a medical degree- having thought my whole life that University was the way to get ahead. How wrong I was! I left uni after my first year, having found it a rather isolating and depressing experience (among other personal contributing factors). After I left study I had no idea what to do with myself. I went to a dozen job interviews but I was always told I was 'too young with not enough experience'. At that point it was suggested to me that I look into getting a trade by family members who work in the electrical industry.”

She had a direction to explore now, but what was Kate’s process to get into the electrical trades? “I saw an ad for an apprenticeship with Fonterra- but thinking I would never get it, I didn't apply. I then went on to apply for a few other apprenticeships before my Mum and my Nana convinced me to apply at the dairy company. Many of my family members had previously worked for Fonterra, and told me what a great place it was to work. I wrote up my CV and handed it in well past the application closing date, though this didn’t seem to be an issue- after what I thought was a rather extensive employment process I had the Job!”

From day one in her trade career, Kate was learning “I’m still an apprentice, but my gosh how I have progressed! Not only in my trade, but as a person also. I came into my apprenticeship just a little scared of failing, I had never used a power tool or stripped cable, or opened a motor before. I didn't even know what the insulation colours were/meant and physics was not a strong subject of mine. I can now do many things and confidently 'wing' the rest! I was initially a bit scared of where this career choice would or wouldn't take me, though I can see now that the world is my oyster. I could go anywhere in the world with this trade!”

A day as an electrical apprentice for Fonterra looks a bit like this: “I’m in a maintenance electrical role, so there are a lot of checks and small improvements that we make on a daily basis. There are also a lot of cool, larger installation and improvement jobs that we do. I feel lucky to work for a company that encourages self improvement and further diversified learning as we also get to deal with a lot of instruments and process automation.”

Family influence was a strong factor in Kate choosing electrical as her trade. “Im not sure if you'd call it inspiration or coercion, but my Mum and Nana really pushed me to put in my applications. Also my Uncle has done extraordinarily well with his trade behind him so this was rather influential.”

A trade career can definitely come with it’s challenges, but as Kate explains, many of these can relate to your own thoughts about heading down a new career path. “Most of my challenges were more mental than anything else, particularly in the beginning of my apprenticeship. I often wondered if this was the right path for me and if I would ever be any good at it. I am so grateful to have had such a supportive team by my side, and that I stuck at it. I couldn't see myself anywhere else now! One thing I struggled with when I started applying for trades was the perception that getting a trade was like a last resort, I was scared some of my family and friends would look at me as a failure when really the only person that felt that way was myself. I wish I had known how challenging this apprenticeship was going to be. It’s not like school where the curriculum was set out for you and you knew what you were going to be tested on. Your success in a trade is dictated by your own motivation and ability to ask questions to further your understanding and do a better job. I also wish I had known about all the other avenues that an electrical trade can take you down, and that there is a lot of money to be made if you work hard enough. I also wish someone would have told me that there is a place for women in this industry because we have something different to give.”

What does Kate love most about her trade? “I love the diversity, each day brings something new. New challenges and new people. I like being on my feet and doing physical labour, its very rewarding. Most of all I love being in a job market that is not saturated and offers new opportunities at each turn. I have a lot of people asking me to do small jobs for them, its pretty cool feeling of value to others. I've also started a lot of new sports that have partially been made possible by my workmates. Like snowboarding and water skiing!”

And for the future, Kate has some super cool goals to chase! “I would love to travel the world with my trade for a while, work on ski fields, maybe some marine work on super yachts, Antarctica with their science projects, the cook islands setting up housing and schools. You can literally go anywhere with this!”

Of course, along with what she’s told us so far about what she wishes she had known before pursuing her electrical career, Kate still has a couple of tips for those considering the same career path: “Just get out there and don't hold back! Be your authentic self because authenticity makes people feel comfortable around you, being "real" is relatable. (To a degree I guess, your boss doesn't need to know your position on controversial topics in an interview).” And even for those who may think age could hold them back from starting a trade: “My mum’s been saying that she wishes she got a trade, so I asked why she doesn't get one now? Her reply is that its too late. I disagree, my Mum is 47 and thus has ATLEAST another 20 odd years of working life before retirement. I haven't even been working 5 years yet and it feels like a lifetime. An apprenticeship is only 3 years, then you'll have at least 17 more years exploring your new career! Remembering that you'll only go as far as your work ethic and determination.”

Women In Trades Wednesday- Georgia Fisher

Georgia Fisher is a Process Operator (or Operator Technician, different companies have slightly different names for the same role) in the NZ Oil and Gas industry. She currently works for OMV, at Maui Production Station in Taranaki. Georgia has been at this current role since January 2019. Previously, she worked as a contractor to Greymouth Petroleum in a similar role to help get her foot in the door. She worked in hospitality while studying to help pay her bills.

After leaving school, Georgia was unsure on the path she wanted to take, so took a year off and worked in retail. She soon felt that she wanted something more in a career- she tells us how it all happened: “I wanted something different, hands-on, and something to challenge myself. I’d heard about a year-long course at WITT (Western Institute of Technology) that would allow me to gain industry knowledge and help get my foot in the door. This piqued my interest, but I didn't have a trade background, which was a pre-requisite for applying. To expand my knowledge, I completed a 6 month pre-trade course, where I learnt how to use hand tools, a drill press, a lathe and a welding machine- which I thoroughly enjoyed! At the end of the six months, I applied for the operator course, but unfortunately I wasn't offered an interview. (This course was very sought after and usually has up to 200 applicants a year, while the course only had space for 20). I didn't give up though, and spent the next year studying a diploma in mechanical engineering. When I applied again the following year, I was lucky enough to be offered a spot on the course."

During the year that she completed the course, the oil and gas industry was experiencing a big downturn and there were very few jobs available on completion of the course. "I think less than half of us managed to get employment in the industry. I decided to take a chance and become a contractor through a company, which then contracted me out to Greymouth Petroleum. I worked at a small site in Inglewood called Kaimiro Production Station, and I loved it! I spent three years there, and gained so much knowledge and skills that I’ll have with me for life."

"When a job came up at Maui Production Station, I jumped at the opportunity to further my career and be an employee for a company with such a big name in the industry. I have now been here for a year and a bit and hope to be for many years to come!”

What does a workday look like for Georgia? She explains: “I work 12 hour days on a 6 on and 6 off roster, which can be any combination of day and night shifts. We usually have 4 people on shift at a time- a control room operator and three area technicians. I will arrive on site at around 6.25am in the morning (MPS is about an hour drive from my house) and complete a shift handover meeting with the current shift. We will discuss any plant changes, jobs completed or coming up, maintenance etc. Then we will have our shift morning meeting at about 6.45am where we will discuss work planned for the day, any plant issues and operating parameters, HSE focuses, equipment isolations etc.

Next is permit issue, where I will oversee and sign permits for jobs being completed in my area of the plant. HSE is very important for us, so it is imperative that all jobs are being carried out with the appropriate controls and barriers in place. Safety of all personnel is paramount. By around 8am, I’m getting outside for my first round. During this round, I will be checking my area for any changes or discrepancies, as well as taking samples, attending toolbox meetings, topping up compressor or pump seal oil, taking readings for the CRO (Control Room Operator), adjusting controllers, and anything else that may be required."

"Every single day is different- so at any given time during the day, I could be attending meetings regarding projects or HSE, installing or removing isolations on plant equipment, starting up or shutting down plant equipment, completing emergency exercises, overseeing work being completed in my area, making changes to controllers at request of the CRO, loading out or loading in product, taking samples for the lab, and of course doing a few more rounds in my area throughout the day. We have to be available at all times to assist with plant issues, as it is very important to keep gas going out the gate. At the end of the shift I will write down my notes for the next shift and complete a shift handover with the operator taking over my specific area.”

Want a little background on how Oil & Gas processing works? Georgia gives us a run-down: “The Maui field consists of two offshore platforms, and a production station. The wells offshore extract the oil and gas from the reservoir deep beneath the seabed, which then goes through a process of separation before being sent to MPS separately through the gas pipeline, and the condensate pipeline. The gas will be dried out using a heating and cooling process before entering the pipeline, which travels all the way to Auckland where it is distributed. The condensate is stripped of LPG through the fractionation train, and then pumped to the tank farm in New Plymouth, our condensate then travels overseas to be further refined. The LPG is stored on site and then pumped to Port Taranaki where it is loaded onto ships and distributed.”

Georgia counts her Mum as one of her biggest inspirations; “She was actually the one who pushed me to be in this line of work, and I wouldn't be where I am without her. She also works in a male dominated industry so it's pretty cool to see us both pushing the gender boundaries! Obviously working in a male dominated industry comes with it’s challenges. 99.9% of the guys that I work with are great, but there has been a few times where I have had to speak up and stand up for myself.”

What does Georgia love most about her trade? “I love the fact that every day is different.” She explains. “I like being able to use my mind to problem solve issues on the plant- sometimes we have a plant issue that has never happened before, so we have to try figure out the cause and rectify the issue, usually quite quickly! I am lucky enough to work with a great bunch of guys who are always willing teach me and help me problem solve.”

What are Georgia’s goals for the future? “Hopefully in the next few years I can progress into the role of CRO. This would mean having control of the plant, and therefore a lot more responsibility. At the moment I am focusing on completing my training to be competent in all areas of the plant.”

What did she wish she had known before she entered the industry? “I wish I had known how difficult the long hours would be. It definitely takes some time to get used to it. Having a healthy lifestyle helps! Shift work definitely takes a toll on your mind and body, which I figured out very quickly. I try to live a relatively healthy lifestyle and am lucky enough to have a gym available at work which I use most days!”

Advice Georgia would give others looking to get into the NZ Oil & Gas industry? “If you live in Taranaki I would definitely recommend the Process Operations course at WITT. The majority of the oil and gas companies in Taranaki are heavily involved with this course so it helps you get a foot in the door. In my experience, going to work for a smaller contract company also helped me gain necessary skills to progress in my career. The oil and gas industry are always looking for females to make the workplace more diverse so its a good time to put yourself out there if this line of work interests you!”

Women In Trades Wednesday- Stacey Lord

Hi, I’m Stacey Lord. I’m an Electrical Instrumentation (IMC) apprentice, as well as a qualified Electrician working at New Zealand Steel. My electrical apprenticeship as well as my current IMC apprenticeship have both been under the guidance of ETCO (The Electrical Training Company).

I first stumbled across ETCO at a school career evening in 2014, and got talking to them about what the trade is, what subjects I was taking at the time (electronics, hard materials and the usual English, maths and science), what subjects I needed to take the following year (physics), as well as other criteria needed for the apprenticeship. Over the following year ETCO kept in contact, asking if I had received my NCEA results yet, or if I had sat my restricted driver’s licence. In June 2015 I started my electrical apprenticeship.

During my apprenticeship, I did work that ranged from commercial lighting and installs, building panels for timber treatment plants to changing lights on the harbour bridge. Now, while working in IMC I’ve been maintaining machinery such as x-rays, and rotary kilns.

I guess you could say I got into this line of work because I didn’t want to get stuck behind a desk and I always liked doing something a bit different, I also really enjoyed doing electronics at high school.

The biggest challenge I’ve faced happened about 2 years into my electrical apprenticeship, when I had a car crash that resulted in concussion, adding 6 months onto the apprenticeship. The concussion impacted me a lot, as I wasn’t allowed to work- let alone physically and mentally handle any work, as I had trouble concentrating, staying awake and keeping my balance (all signs of concussion). It took me 9 months to get back to working full time, and by that stage I had to catch up on my book work and ended up doing two levels together.

The thing I love most about being in the trade is the variety of work and the people I work with. All of whom have never judged me for being a female, and gave me a chance to prove that I can be a tradie. All my workmates treat me as their equal and don’t tiptoe around me (which is something I have encountered, as people don’t expect a female in this role) if they don’t like something, they tell me.

My proudest moment was qualifying as an electrician. I am furthering my training by carrying forward with the IMC apprenticeship.

One of the biggest things I have noticed about being in the trade is how much it affects my mood outside of work. Because I’m doing something I enjoy, I’m a lot happier. It affects how I dress outside of work hours- as I’m in overalls and boots all day it’s nice to dress “like a girl” which I never used to do. I also get to know new people, because as soon as I mention I’m a Sparkie, it opens up a whole new set of questions such as “how is it being a woman in the trade?”, “how did you get into it?” “what do you think about women going into the trade?” etc.

My advice to anyone looking at becoming an electrician is to go for it, do something that makes you happy. And for the females- don’t be afraid of being the only women on site or on the tools. Change has to start somewhere, so why not with us?

Stacey

Women In Trades Wednesday- Alana Davies

Alana Davies is a 21-year-old Drainlayer, who has been in the industry on and off over the last three years. She is currently doing her apprenticeship with Skills, and says of her experience: “they have been absolutely amazing to deal with, and have supported me through all the ups and downs along the way.”

After going through the gruelling process of stopping and starting her apprenticeship multiple times due to family relocating, struggling to find an apprenticeship, being let go, and quitting, she is finally on the right track thanks to Manawatu Contracting and Drainage.

Alana tells us more: “I started part time with them around August last year, at that point in life I was not overly keen on going back through the process and getting back in the trenches, but they always reckoned they'd convince me eventually and get me full time one day….I took a leap of faith and here I am! Over the years I have been torn between whether to go back into farming, or back into Drainlaying. I love both of them, but obviously being unable to do both of them full time, I think now I have found that somewhat perfect balance- My boyfriend is a Shepherd on a sheep and beef farm, so I get to help him out on the farm on the weekends if he works, and then I have Drainlaying during the week.”

Alana counts her dad as her biggest inspiration- “He is a certified Drainlayer, and from as long as I can remember being a little kid sitting in a Dads digger bucket, I've always wanted to be like him and get outside, get dirty and have a hands on practical job.”

A hands-on type career with full support from her family was always on the cards for Alana- “I am so lucky to have such amazing parents who have supported me from the get go. I think Mum always knew from a young age that I wasn't like most of my peers, that I'd probably choose a non-traditional path somewhere down the track. I loved getting my hands messy, playing in the mud, watching Dad unblock the toilets, getting out on motorbikes, long weekends out camping and scaring other girls my age and older in the dark, playing rugby with the Island boys down the road -barefoot and on tar-seal- I was often found playing with offal from animals during science projects too, you know all the fun and yucky stuff!”

Variety and a strong teamwork attitude are two key qualities Alana loves about her job. “I turn up to the yard at 7.30am each morning, grab a coffee and catch up with the boss and the team for the morning debrief. We then go out, check the trucks and diggers over, load gear and batteries for our power tools into our trailers, and set up our vehicles for the day. Sometimes we will go out and lay a set of house drains, sometimes there’s hours on the digger- backfilling and tidying sites. Other days it's small repair jobs like moving a downpipe or fixing a broken sewer pipe that the builders went through when they built the deck, digging plus installing water tanks and septic tanks, helping the boys with the earthworks of a foundation or a driveway dig out, and sometimes there are days where I sit in a truck all day carting loads to and from site and out to the quarry- I do love a good day in the truck!"

"Manawatu Contracting is a family owned and operated business who treats all of us like family. I work in a close-knit team, and we all like to have a good yarn and a good laugh on site. It's just awesome knowing you are more than just a number, that you do count as an individual and as an up and coming tradie.”

Alana’s current goal is to hit the nail on the head and to finish her apprenticeship this year, “Corona may have held things up a bit but we'll get there!”

How does Alana find her trade affects her life outside of work? She explains: “Juggling your personal life and commitments can be a wee bit tricky with a full-time outdoorsy job, especially when Aunty Flow kicks in at that inconvenient time of the month, and you’re extra tired. At the end of the day, with all the opportunities and experience I'm getting, it's so worth it. It's all about balance, and learning what you can and can't do during the week- you just have to try and squeeze it into everything else on the list for the weekends.” Also, being a long-distance Godmother- “To two beautiful babies!” Alana adds, but not getting to be able to travel to spend more time with them is one of the challenges she faces- “I just have to make the most of my time with them when I do go up for holidays”.

Alana’s advice for anyone interested in a career in Drainlaying is simple: “Don't be afraid to give it a go, you'll know pretty quick if you like the job or if you don't. There is so much support for women in non-traditional trades these days which is awesome, I still to this day have young and old folk come over on a semi-regular basis, to say a quick ‘hello’ and tell you they think it's awesome to see a girl in the trades. Always get a few cheeky comments about keeping the boys in line…I mean, someone's gotta do it- right?!

Also ladies, there is always someone with a watchful eye, whether we know it or not, so keeping a tidy standard of workmanship, an eye for detail, and a good sense of humour will take you a long way....and don't be afraid to ask the old boys questions...the old bucks know their stuff!”

Women In Trades Wednesday- Kimberley Kalin

Kimberley Jayne Lichtwark-Kalin has been working in the automotive glass industry coming up 3 three years, for Smith&Smith®, and is currently completing her technician qualification with BCITO- She has one module to complete to be fully qualified.

She began her career as a Flexi Tech, basically a TA (Trade Assistant) to everybody in the workshop in a summer support role. When this was up, Kimberley was offered a Technician role and an apprenticeship. “I am now the leading hand at our branch and have an amazing team that works with me. My official title now is Leading Hand of New Plymouth. It’s been a busy couple of years!”

On how she got into her trade, Kimberley explains: “I was a single mum at the time (son 2 years old) and I was ready to get back into the work force, however I wasn’t keen to go back to hospitality. I decided to complete a welding course, but the hours needed in an engineering trade are too long with a child, so I completed my course and continued to work part time in a cafe whilst applying for full time work. I saw an advert for a “Flexi Tech” summer support role at Smith&Smith®, it was only a temporary role but I applied anyway, I had also applied for a position in a gas company at this time.” “A few weeks later I interviewed for both jobs. The gas company offered me the job on the spot, but it didn’t feel right. There was no opportunity to grow my career within the company nor was it very hands on. I hadn’t heard from Smith&Smith®, so I called my now Boss.... numerous times, and convinced him to take a chance on me…. He eventually offered me the job! I was certain it was where I wanted to be.”

Kimberley was inspired to climb the ladder in her career because of the company she works for. “I have had nothing but endless support, fun, education, opportunities and of course a few struggles.”

The challenges Kimberley encountered personally through her journey were hard, but not something that couldn’t be overcome. “Being a single mum, I’ve had to budget very strictly so I could afford to put my son in full time day-care before I started, also I needed to love my job because childcare pretty much cancels out my pay cheque. But trust me- with hard work comes great success! Everything is temporary if you have an end goal.”

On what she loves most about her trade, Kimberley includes both the work itself, and her company: “What I love is that it’s forever changing! Vehicles are constantly adding new features, new software and no two cars are ever the same meaning I’m NEVER bored! Aside from the trade itself, it’s my company that made me fall in love with my job, they offer so many opportunities to grow professionally and personally. They really celebrate their people and I love that!”

Kimberley counts her biggest achievement so far as having the opportunity to compete in the New Zealand best of Belron last year. “Six of the best techs from around the country got to battle it out for the chance to go to the world comps which will be held in Barcelona. I didn’t win, but I am the first female to get as far as I did! It was a very emotional, exciting, shocking, stressful event but all worth it! (Link to a video of this event can be found on our WIT Facebook page)

On how her choice of career has affected other areas of her life, Kimberley notes some pretty cool points: “My career has given me nothing but positive impacts on my life. I have had the opportunity to speak to people of all walks of life and professions, I’ve made life-long friendships within my company and community. It’s given me the confidence to get in and fix everything before throwing it out! It has also helped me develop my mechanical and business knowledge.”

Kimberley’s advice for someone considering following in her career path? “If you want to do something DO IT! You will always find a way to get there if you don’t give up! Nothing comes easy or free, but the rewards you get out of pushing yourself to be the best far exceeds any struggle to begin with! It always seems impossible until you start.”

Women In Trades Wednesday- Tegan Williams

Tegan Williams is a Painter Decorator who has been working in the industry for 3 years, and is completing her apprenticeship with BCITO. She is also a volunteer firefighter, and her hobbies include woodworking with native timbers making chopping boards, bath boards and picnic boards for the beach.

How Tegan got into her trade is a little bit different- “I got my job through my Officer at the fire station. I was complaining on the truck one day that I was really unhappy with my office job, and wanted something new before summer started. He offered me some summer work and I’ve never looked back!”

What does a work day look like for Tegan? She explains: “A normal day for me will consist of waking up and making a coffee for my partner (who also happens to be my boss) and then off to work at 7:30am. If it is a new build that we can lock up, once we get to site, we usually unload the entire contents of the ute- drawers, paint brushes, rollers etc into the garage, then start to fill every single hole in the house. We mask out the floors in the garage, then head to the paint shop. Return to drop the paint off then by this time it’s usually smoko, which has become our breakfast time. Afterwards we’ll start masking out the windows ready to spray with sealer, then it’s lunch which consists of heating up leftovers in the sandwich press while I go pick up some coffees. To finish off our days well tidy up and get all the gear ready for the next day or usually head off to another small job and get that done.”

Tegan notes that she didn’t exactly feel inspired to choose her career, “but I was definitely inspired to keep doing it once I stopped feeling self-conscious about being a woman in the trades. This, funnily enough, was because I found an amazing community of female tradies all over the world on Instagram- this I’m thankful for as I am not cut out for an office job!”

A few challenges Tegan has overcome to get to where she is now include: “Definitely having to grow my self-confidence and making sure I’m heard. Being a female in a trade is hard. Being a female apprentice in a trade is even harder. You’ll meet old dogs who don’t want to hear your new tricks, you’ll meet people who think you’re there for the day to help your dad out, and you’ll also meet people who won’t talk to you because they think you won’t understand. Which leads to one of the most satisfying things in my day- Proving them wrong!”

The diversity is something Tegan enjoys about her trade- “When it’s sunny, I work outside. When it’s raining, I work inside. Every day is something different whether it’s working on a roof, repainting a stairwell, or fixing a hole in the wall the dog chewed out when there was a storm. 3 years on and I am still learning.”

She’s also shared a couple of work stories with us- “One time I didn’t check that the pressure of my airless was released before twisting the gun off to clean it. As I unscrewed the attachment around 1L of watery paint squirted all up my arm, all over my shirt and down my leg. I had to wash off on the site tap before I could use the boss’ car to go home and change!”

“Another time my Boss was having a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day by 11am when we arrived onto a worksite. Nothing I was doing was fast enough for him and while he was on a roof and I was bending down to pick up the planks to hand him, my pants split. I paused, he asked ‘What’s taking so long? Hurry up!’ I said I just split my pants. He said ‘who cares? It can’t be that bad, hurry up- let’s see’ to which I turned around and could fit my whole hand in the rip. I had to borrow a builder’s jumper to walk to the car and drive to the warehouse to get new shorts! Boss was even more unhappy when I got back to the jobsite!

Future goals for Tegan encompass all aspects of her trade- “being able to run individual jobs by myself from the quoting to the last stroke of paint.” How has her career choice impacted her life so far? “My career has allowed me to be a lot more flexible outside of work for sure. There’s no need to squeeze in that appointment at lunch time or organise to meet friends after a certain time as being in my trade is so flexible and my boss is very understanding. I can also make up hours or work extra hours when I need to, as we’re so busy with all the new housing going up around our area. The job has also given me a lot of physical and mental self-confidence. I’m no size 10 girl, but that is fine by me as I have a physically demanding job, and I know my body is strong and healthy and that is one thing that makes me so happy when I look in the mirror each morning.”

Tegan’s advice for someone considering a career in Painting & Decorating? “If you’ve ever thought about getting into a trade, I say just do it. It’s just like any other job that you’ll apply for. If you don’t like it you find something else you think you’ll enjoy. You just never want to look back and think ‘if only I’d given it a go’.

Women In Trades Wednesday- Chantelle Galvin

Chantelle Osborne-Galvin is a second-year carpentry apprentice based in Rotorua. She is currently completing her apprenticeship through Toi-Ohomai ITABS.

On how she got into her carpentry career, Chantelle explains that it wasn’t easy to find a job in her local and surrounding area- “​​I actually struggled to find a job in the industry. I looked as far as Taupo and Tauranga (I live in Rotorua) but still struggled, so I had to find a job in another industry while looking for the work I wanted. I was on the unemployment benefit through Work and Income when they found me a job in an administration role. I took this job and continued to look for building jobs. Over one year later, Work and Income contacted me again saying a business in Rotorua was looking for a labourer/apprentice. I met up with my now boss and had a meeting/relaxed interview and I got the job on the condition that I could start my apprenticeship after my 3-month trial.”

 Not many of Chantelle’s work days look the same- “One day I’ll be digging holes for piles and the next day I might be putting in wall insulation or cladding a house. The variation is incredible. But being the newest apprentice in our team, I’m usually always doing the dirtier and/or harder jobs like digging holes, doing hardware etc.”

On what got her into her building career, a feeling that things needed to change was a motivating factor; ​ “My specialty before carpentry was in tourism and hospitality. I dropped out of high school to complete a Diploma in Tourism Management. But it wasn't what I wanted to do. I googled job ideas and building popped up. I’d be lying if I said I didn't look up how much they earn- I got a bit more encouraged by that! Because I had absolutely no background in building and hadn't grown up around a Dad, Granddad or Uncle in the trades, I had no idea what I was doing- so I did the pre-trade course at Toi-Ohomai Rotorua. I took a spontaneous chance at trying something different and it worked out way better than I could have even imagined.”

Chantelle tells us about some challenges she’s had to overcome to get to her current point: “I’m a massive control freak, but being an apprentice means I’m at the bottom of the food chain. I have no control, and I’ve had to accept that- in the hope that one day I’ll get the control back in the form of being a site foreman and/or owning my own construction company. Also, being discriminated against- Not always said out loud by others, but in their actions. I have been to a job interview where the boss questioned my ability to do certain tasks such as 'heavy lifting' because I'm "a female and my strength may not be that of a male". I’ve had to change the way I portray myself on site so that the boys see me as equal and not above or below them. I don’t like getting special treatment for being a female, and I don’t mind struggling and asking for help if I’m given the opportunity like my workmates.”

Aside from the challenges a building trade can bring, Chantelle still has many parts of her work that she enjoys-​ “I love the variety of work first and foremost. I love completing different tasks everyday. I think my favourite part of my job is seeing the progression, both of myself and how far I’ve come, and also the projects we work on- starting from scratch with a slab of dirt, and making it into potentially the biggest asset/investment of someone’s life.”  

Most proud career achievements to date? Chantelle fills us in: ​ “Just being a female and making it in this industry! I know many males who couldn’t do it, both physically and mentally/intellectually. Making a massive, scary career move like I did from tourism/hospitality to building and just loving it and loving my decision. Also, every day for me is a proud moment- every day I learn something new about myself and what i’m capable of. E.g. upgrading from being told what to do all the time, to being told to go read the plans, and be able to do that and understand what I’m doing and why I’m doing it.”

Chantelle has many aspirations for the future- “I use the term “goals” loosely as I’m only now beginning to make moves and haven't physically written them down and planned for them- YET. I really want to be more involved in the women in trades community. Communicating with other women in different trades from all over the country and if the opportunity was to arise, overseas. I want to be able to speak to women who may be considering a job in the trades and encourage them, giving them a support network, making it easier for them than it was for myself and many other women. I want to be a qualified LBP (licenced building practitioner) with aspirations to someday own my own business - probably with many years of experience under my belt. I would absolutely LOVE the opportunity to build in other countries and see how things are done, broaden my knowledge and skills.”

 On how her career choice has impacted her life outside work, your life outside work, Chantelle explains that both her social life and self-confidence have been affected in different ways, she explains: “I’ve really struggled with making new female friends. Because I’m the only female in the company, the relationships with the guys are different than what they would be with females. I believe it can be quite a lonely trade if you’re not super outgoing or a social butterfly. Outside of work, I don’t socialise a lot so therefore find it really hard to make friends that aren’t work mates. Over the years, I’ve become more confident in myself and my abilities. I see it as "I can do a job that is male dominated. If I can do that I can do *this*". Because building is a very physical job, I think it has had a negative impact on my home/social life- after a long day at work I just want to come home, relax and sleep instead of going out to socialise like other 'normal’ 22-year-olds. Apart from weekends, I don’t have much energy for "me" time.”

 Advice Chantelle would you give someone looking to get into carpentry is: “Just go for it! Don't take things too seriously and just enjoy the process. You’ll see yourself transform into such a strong, independent woman. It is hard at the start- I’m not going to lie. But everything that’s worth it is not going to be easy. You will more than likely struggle with people underestimating you and questioning your abilities, but stay strong in your values and beliefs and don’t let anyone change you! I think if you’ve made the decision to get into any trade, you have the ability to make it! Trades intimidate many women, and they think they can’t do it. Just make the move and be yourself, you won’t regret it! It’s such a rewarding career mentally, physically, emotionally- everything!”

Women In Trades Wednesday- Leah Herlihy

Leah Herlihy is a Quarry Dump Truck and Machinery Operator at Bellingham Quarries Ltd, who has been working in the industry for about 2.5 years. Previous to this, Leah worked as a Site Traffic Management Supervisor.

Family ties to the quarry at the time ended up being Leah’s foot in the door to the quarrying industry, she explains: “I got My job through my step dad who used to work here part time. Management asked him if he knew anyone who wanted a part time job over the stripping season (removal of dirt or clay sitting on top of the rock to be processed). He said I would be interested in having a go, they said yes- if he trained me up, which he did over a couple of hours one Sunday afternoon. I was offered a full- time contract on the Monday, and started work at the quarry two weeks later, after I had worked out my notice at AWF where I was an STMS.”

Holding her wheels, tracks and rollers licence endorsements, Leah’s days see her busy with a variety of work that involves operating many of the machines in the quarry. “I like the fact that there are never two days the same. Some days I could be in the loader, loading trucks up with metal, other days I could be pushing dirt with the bulldozer, or I could be in the Volvo A30F dump truck moving various materials.”

While working in a traditionally masculine field can have its challenges- Leah notes that it took a while for her to be treated equally, her motivation is clear- “I just really wanted to prove that a girl could actually do it!” She also mentions the pay as being one of the things she enjoys most about the work she does.

Leah counts getting to train new crew members as some of her most proud moments- “It’s knowing that the bosses trust me and my decisions”. She also has some pretty cool goals for the future: “To get my road truck and trailer licence, and maybe try out working in an Aussie mine!”

Despite the enjoyment Leah gets from her career, there have been some adjustments to her personal life that she’s had to navigate since taking on a career in a quarry- “I have less time for social activity when working long hours, and 6 days a week in peak season. There’s less time to get to the gym- which is a new hobby, and less time to spend with family at gatherings.”

Included in Leah’s proudest moments is that “I am the first and only female working at the quarry in its 80-year history! I also still hold the NZ Junior record for a fish I caught years ago.” She is also a bit of a car lover- “My parents have always had classics and hot-rods and I definitely have caught their car bug!”

Advice Leah would give to someone looking to get into her line of work is: “You must have a bit of a thick skin to work in an all- male environment, but if you truly have the passion then just go for it! If you go into this industry, you will definitely have a laugh. To be honest, at times you will probably have a cry too. I find training the new or temporary guys a laugh - sometimes it’s a ‘fear for my life’ feeling, or a pee my pants laughing situation!”

“Below is a team photo from an award we won. Thanks to Bellingham’s Quarries for giving me a chance- that’s all girls need is for someone like them to give you a try. If you’re really wanting to get into this industry, go and ask if you can do a free day’s work and see what happens- you never know, you might end up with a job!”

Women In Trades Wednesday- Olivia Broadhurst

Olivia Broadhurst has been working in the building industry for over 6 years. She completed her qualification through BCITO in 2017 and is now a qualified carpenter and registered LBP (Licensed Building Practitioner).

 On how she got into a career in trades, Olivia says: “It was not a decision I’d ever thought about. The opportunity arose to do some labouring when I was just out of school and desperate for a job. That’s where I discovered my passion for building, I’m very fortunate to have been given that opportunity.”

 Working for herself, Olivia’s days are a real mix of both on the tools and behind the scenes work- “My usual day is 7am -4:30pm, I generally plan my weeks in advance as to what site I will be on. I project manage all my jobs, and do the quotes and estimate, everything that goes with running my own business- I spend one afternoon a week doing book work and generally 5-6 days on the tools. I specialise in full house renovations and small jobs like decks and bathroom renovations, but I am taking on a new build at the end of this year. My weeks are jam-packed and busy, but I love the challenge of renovations and turning old into new.”

 There have been a few challenges along the way, but Olivia cites support from groups like the Tradie Lady Club as being inspiration for her to keep going. “Being in a male dominated industry always has its moments, mentally and emotionally. Getting through my apprenticeship had its moments and many times i wanted to quit but I got through and am happy with where I am now.”

 On what she loves about her trade, she explains: “Everything! I love project management, I love being outside, I love learning, I love creating things with my hands. How could you not love building? It’s just such a satisfying job in every aspect!”

 Olivia isn’t short on career achievements to be proud of: “I have been lucky enough to win the Top of the South Apprentice of the Year 2017, 2nd place Women in Construction Achievement award 2018, Licensed builder practitioner 2018, and just getting to where I  am in my career is an achievement in my eyes.”  

 Outside of work, Olivia spends a lot of time each year hunting all over the South Island- “It’s a hobby my husband and I share and have great passion for. I was brought up by a single mum- the opportunity for me to hunt and provide free range meat for my family was what started it. I was also lucky enough to marry the love of my life December last year, and no he is not a builder!”

As for the future, she has some pretty cool goals in place- “I want to try to build up my company and expand to a small team of hopefully girls and guys, possibly do a wee Aussie stint before I grow my business. My main goal this year is to encourage and support young women and share my story of how I got here via Instagram” (Olivia’s page can be found by searching @oliviabroadhurstbuilding_ on Instagram).

 On how her choice of career has impacted her life outside of work, Olivia explains there’s been a few positive effects- “When I started building, I was a shy insecure young lady who had absolutely no opinion about anything, took everything to heart and was easily offended. Now I am confident with all my work, I am tough mentally and physically it takes a lot for someone to upset me. I’m strong, fit, healthy, more energetic and enthusiastic about everything I do at home and work.”

 Some advice Olivia would give someone looking to get into building?  “Try to get some work experience and give it your best shot. Show enthusiasm, ask questions and don’t be put off by what anyone says. Your career is your choice.”