Unsure about future study? CIT offers a path to success without the stress
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When it comes to deciding on your future career, there are many paths to success.
As ATAR results loom, the pressure to have your future all figured out can feel overwhelming.
For Year 12 students – and their families – December can be a stressful time of year, bringing a whirlwind of excitement and uncertainty as many young people anxiously await the release of their Year 12 results and consider what to do next.
It’s something Amber, Third-Year Carpentry Apprentice with Hardwick Projects, remembers all too well.
Reflecting on her own journey from school to work, the recent ACT Apprentice of the Year nominee says that choosing to pursue an apprenticeship at the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) instead of going to university put her on a path to career success without the stress.
“I first heard about CIT when I was in college. I was looking at different courses and trying to figure out what I wanted to do after school for further study because I knew I didn’t want to go to university,” she says.
“I had no idea what I wanted to do. The cost was a big factor – picking a degree that you weren’t sure about and then having that debt… it’s quite scary to commit to.”
Amber is among the growing number of young women choosing apprenticeships over university degrees and making an impact in traditionally male-dominated industries. With hands-on learning, fee-free training options, and courses designed to lead directly to employment, CIT offers a flexible, accessible pathway that empowers students like Amber to take their next step with confidence.
While the no-ATAR application process and “earn while you learn” study options initially attracted Amber to CIT, she credits the supportive learning environment as the key reason the institution stood out in her field.
As a woman in a male-dominated trade, Amber says CIT’s commitment to inclusivity has allowed her to thrive in her carpentry apprenticeship.
“All the teachers are so supportive at CIT. The main thing that stuck out to me is they treated me equally. They set a great example for other students when it comes to providing an inclusive environment,” says Amber.
“That’s what we need in the industry to help motivate other tradeswomen to enter a traditionally male trade.”
CIT is known for providing for high-quality vocational education and training across a wide range of trades, many of which have historically been considered been dominated by men.
Through education, training, and mentorship, CIT is breaking down barriers and creating a more inclusive workforce that reflects the potential of all individuals, regardless of gender.
In 2024, CIT saw for the first time, more women than men enrolled in the traditionally male-dominated field of panel beating and vehicle painting (automotive refinishing).
Pictured: Georgia, CIT Automotive Refinishing Student and winner of the 2024 ACT Colour Matching Competition.
Georgia, a CIT automotive refinishing student and winner of the 2024 ACT Colour Matching Competition, was one of these students. “I’ve always had a love for cars and enjoyed painting and being creative. This career means I can put the two together,” she says.
“I’m proud to be a female in what’s a mainly male-focused trade especially when there is a skill shortage. I think there are a lot more women in trades jobs these days and we should all expect to be treated equally and respectfully,” Amber says.
With more women and gender-diverse people entering traditionally male-dominated trades like automotive, electrical, and carpentry, a supportive learning environment is key to helping others to shine in industries that were once out of reach. At CIT, this includes providing opportunities to connect with peers and industry professionals, fee-free course options and scholarships to advance participation.
Supporting more women and girls to pursue trade qualifications could help ease Australia’s skills shortage. As the nation faces a shortage of skilled workers, women are uniquely positioned to fill this gap. They bring diverse perspectives and skills to industries that have long been male-dominated, driving innovation and growth.
New data from the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) reveals an 80% increase in the number of women training as apprentices in traditionally male-dominated industries over the past five years. [1] However, women still make up only 15% of the building and construction workforce, with less than 3% working ‘on the tools’, according to Master Builders Australia. [2]
As more women like Georgia and Amber enter these industries, they are challenging stereotypes and paving the way for future generations.
Amber notes that the practical experience and industry connections she gained at CIT left her feeling confident and ready to work long before graduation. She says that the hands-on training in environments that closely mimic industry settings is invaluable and gives all students the skills they need for their future career path.
Amber encourages anyone unsure about their future to consider CIT as a pathway. With a wide range of apprenticeships, certificates, diplomas, and graduate certificates on offer, there’s something for everyone at CIT.
“No matter your passion, when it comes to your future career path, there’s no need to panic because an ATAR is not the only path to success,” says Amber.
“You’re never going to know if it’s the right path for you or if it’s something you want to do if you don’t try it. CIT is so welcoming, they have so many resources, and the people there are set in place to help you succeed. You’ve just got to go for it even if you’re not sure.”
[1] Source: https://ministers.dewr.gov.au/giles/nearly-80-increase-women-learning-trade
[2] Source: https://masterbuilders.com.au/breaking-ground-women-in-building-and-construction/
Feature image: Amber, CIT Carpentry Apprentice and ACT Apprentice of the Year nominee. Credit: Taylah Cunningham.
