More women are entering trades in Marlborough, with BCITO – New Zealand’s largest building and construction apprenticeship provider – reporting considerable growth in female apprenticeships over the past 11 years.
In 2015, women made up just 0.2 percent of BCITO apprentices nationwide. Today, that figure is more than 6 percent. In Marlborough, women account for 9 percent of apprentices, well above the national average.
BCITO training adviser Stuart Caulfield says the increase is likely due to several factors, including the launch of the Women in Trades programme in 2015, which aims to introduce women to opportunities in the sector and build confidence.
“We’re doing the best we can to break down those barriers and encourage women into the workforce.”
Stuart says employers are increasingly embracing flexible working arrangements and supporting young mothers to help retain staff.
“We’re very proud of our local employers and the adjustments they’re making.”
Marlborough builder and carpenter Carmen Sutton, who has worked in the industry for 15 years, says she is pleased to see attitudes shifting in traditionally male-dominated fields. She recalls facing challenges when she first started in the industry.
“Some men just didn’t feel I should be there because I was a woman.”
She says a client once approached her male apprentice instead of her, prompting him to explain that she was the boss.
“It happens, but overall I had a really good boss who backed me 100 percent.”
Sophia Campbell, 22, an estimator in architectural aluminium joinery, says she occasionally experiences similar reactions.
“Sometimes you get an older guy who looks straight past you and asks, ‘Where’s the boss?’ And actually, I’m the one who can help.”
Despite this, Sophia says she has been “pleasantly surprised” by how welcoming other tradies have been and hopes gender does not deter others from pursuing a trade career.
“If you have a dream, just go for it.”
Carmen agrees, saying she is encouraged to see more young women entering the sector.
“People’s mindsets have changed a lot. There are more women out there in the trades, and that’s really good to see,” she says.
Despite the progress, women make up just 3 percent of tradespeople across New Zealand’s construction sector. BCITO has set a target of increasing that figure to 30% by 2040.
Stuart says he is proud of Marlborough’s performance in supporting tradeswomen.
“Our numbers show we’re boxing above our weight.”
