Building careers: The Canberra program opening doors for women in construction
Posted on
For many women in Canberra, landing a job in construction is not just unexpected, it is transformative. It means entering an industry that hasn’t traditionally held space for women to thrive.
The Wodens Civil Tasters Program is quietly and powerfully creating meaningful opportunities for women – including First Nations participants and those rebuilding lives after involvement with the justice system – to challenge outdated assumptions, build skills, and foster sense of belonging.
One of those women is Cushla, a proud Indigenous woman, who joined the program after years as a stay-at-home mum. She now works with the local construction company, balancing her four-day work week with her role as a parent.
“Before this, I didn’t really have much work experience,” she shares.
“I was a stay-at-home mum for years, and trying to get back into the workforce with not a lot going for me felt really hard. I’m so grateful to have been given this opportunity.”
For Cushla, the experience of stepping into the construction industry has been surprisingly empowering.
“I loved the program,” Cushla says.
“We built friendships, heard each other’s stories, and learned at a gentler pace. Having someone you know with you on your first day on site made such a huge difference.”
Working four days a week has allowed Cushla to maintain a balance that works for her and her son.
“Being a working mum can be tough but having the flexibility to work four days a week helps me balance everything else that comes with the life of being a parent.”
For participants, the journey starts with fee-free industry-recognised training including White Card certification, asbestos and silica awareness, and hands-on work experience combined with holistic wellbeing support.
“There’s so much to learn in construction. I love being outside, working in a physical job, and I’ve even started getting into the machines which I never thought I’d enjoy. This program helped me discover something completely new and I can share this passion with my boy,” she says
“There are still so few of us in construction, and we bring a lot to the table.”
The program has just celebrated its second round of graduates, bringing the total number of participants to 28. Among them a quarter of the graduates were females including Indigenous women who are now proudly stepping into steel caps and safety vests, proving that there is a place for everyone in construction and that with the right support, they can thrive.
“For the women who have come through the program, it’s not just about finding work, it’s about being seen, supported, and being given the tools to build something that lasts, said Woden’s Systems Manager, Therese Bingley.
“More women absolutely need to be given these chances.”
Jointly funded by Wodens, the Australian Government’s Launch into Work program, and the ACT Training Fund Authority, and supported by The Umbrella Collective, Worldview Foundation, St Vincent de Paul Society Canberra, and the Master Builders Association, the program is a true Canberra community effort.
