Armidale Regional Council (ARC) has launched a ground-breaking Girls in Civil program, aimed at empowering female high school students to explore opportunities in the Civil Construction Industry.
Developed in partnership with Training Services NSW as part of their Regional Industry Education Partnerships, the program addresses the need to provide greater opportunities for women to enter non-traditional roles and promote gender diversity within the industry.
The Girls in Civil program is designed to provide female students with a hands-on experience within the civil construction industry.
Participants will have the chance to engage in various activities, including site visits, equipment demonstrations, and discussions with industry professionals. The program aims to inspire and equip young women with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to pursue successful careers in civil construction.
Council Executive Manager People & Culture, Annie Harris said she was proud of the leadership role that Council has in the development of gender diversity in a male-dominated industry like civil construction.
“We are thrilled to launch the Girls in Civil program, which represents a significant step towards fostering gender diversity within the civil construction industry,” said Ms Harris..
“By providing young women with access to valuable industry experiences and opportunities, we aim to break down barriers and create a more inclusive workforce.”
The Girls in Civil program will span three weeks and provide a comprehensive overview of the civil construction industry, covering equipment operation, safety protocols, site visits, and discussions with professionals from various sectors of the industry.
Regional Industry Education Partnerships (RIEP) Senior Project Officer, Jane Keenan said the Girls in Civil program was an exciting opportunity for female students to explore a career path that has traditionally been dominated by males.
“We believe in empowering young women and opening doors to non-traditional roles, and this program will provide a valuable platform for them to gain practical knowledge, industry connections, and potential employment pathways,” said Ms Keenan.
The program aligns with Armidale Regional Council’s commitment to promoting diversity and equal opportunities within the workforce. By breaking down gender barriers and inspiring the next generation of female leaders, the council aims to create a more inclusive and prosperous community, it said in a statement.
