With construction one of the biggest industries in the Mornington Peninsula, there's never been a better time for women to get on the tools. That's exactly what Shardai Hewett, Peninsula local and plumbing apprentice, is doing – and she encourages other women to do the same.
"Do what your heart says," Shardai said. "People say, 'You can't lift this' or 'You can't do that – you're a girl,' but I've always done it anyway. And now, no one says anything because they know I'm going to prove them wrong."
Shardai always knew she wanted to work in a trade. With a love for hands-on work and a father who owned a plumbing business, she jumped at the chance to start an apprenticeship. Now in her second year at Chisholm, she's making huge strides in her career.
But the journey hasn't been easy. In early 2024, her father had a stroke, and Shardai, her sister, and their mother had to step up and help keep the business running. Just two months after her father returned home, she faced another blow – an ovarian cancer diagnosis.
"I was off the tools for about four months. I was lucky the surgery was all I had to do," she said.
Through it all, she found support from her family, workmates and teachers at Chisholm.
"The teachers and boys at TAFE, all the boys at work – they're just like family to me," said Shardai. "I’ve nearly caught up. I've got one prac to go, and I was about six or seven behind."
Students like Shardai – driven, resilient, and determined – are proving that women belong in trade occupations and are reshaping the industry for the better.
"It makes me feel really proud of myself and know it means that I can do whatever I put my mind to."
Ready to make your mark in the trades sector? Discover courses at Chisholm by visiting chisholm.edu.au/career-fields/building-trades
*Source: https://ministers.dewr.gov.au/giles/nearly-80-increase-women-learning-trade
