STEPS is partnering with Centacare Far North Queensland, giving Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) participants in Cairns the opportunity to take part in the Multicultural Women in Construction program.
For the next six weeks, ten women in STEPS’ SEE program will take part in lessons and workshops about their potential pathways to in-demand positions in Far North Queensland’s construction industry.
VET Trainer Tracey Wyer said that the Multicultural Women in Construction program is an invaluable opportunity for the women in the SEE Program.
“This initiative will inspire and empower so many women to join an industry that they may not have ever considered before,” Ms Wyer said.
“In the workshops, we learnt that $3 billion worth of construction work is set to be delivered this financial year, which points to excellent job stability and earning potential. Construction is an industry that a lot of women, particularly women from different cultural backgrounds, don’t have the opportunity or support to join. STEPS is very excited to be part of a partnership that is working to change that.”
Construction Skills Queensland is encouraging businesses and workers to take advantage of $2.8 million in funding for training, available through its $52 million 2024-25 training plan to expand workforce capacity in the state.
This funding will provide better work opportunities, including work experience and apprenticeships, to women in Far North Queensland and the greater Queensland community.
The SEE participants’ first training session was a workshop at Centacare’s Cairns site, introduced by Construction Skills Queensland, Master Builders Queensland, and Melainna Fa’aofo, head of Centacare Multicultural Services.
The remainder of the training will be spent learning and studying everything the women need to know for a career in construction, including Work Health and Safety issues, administration skills, and the many construction site roles available within the industry.
The Multicultural Women in Construction program will wrap up with a Centacare-hosted workshop, where the participants will have hands-on training with industry tools and building materials.
Ms Wyer said that the SEE team is excited about this collaboration between Centacare and STEPS.
“The STEPS SEE program is all about uplifting our participants and giving them the support, resources and confidence they need to pursue the career and education pathways they feel passionate about,” she said.
“This collaboration with Centacare is another amazing way for us to provide these opportunities. I feel incredibly lucky to see these women learn new skills and take on new experiences.”
Are you looking for a pathway to a new career? SEE is a free training program for all Australians over the age of 15 who have left school and need help with their language, literacy, numeracy and digital skills.
To find out if you’re eligible for SEE and where we offer classes, visit the STEPS website!
About the Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) Program
The Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) Program helps individuals build their skills for the job market or further study through hands-on training and personalised guidance. Our expert trainers offer inclusive and engaging lessons that teach essential literacy, numeracy and digital skills.
