Murray Irrigation helps students explore trade pathways

The 19 female students got the chance to explore multiple trades over the course of the program, including electrical, carpentry and construction.

Their work site visit to Murray Irrigation's Wakool operation provided them with a taste of the skills required for a career in plant operation, and included an excavator driving demonstration.

Murray Irrigation HR manager Nicole Young also spoke to the teenagers about overcoming the cultural and societal barriers that women can experience when considering moving into non-traditional trades.

“Women play a vital role in addressing skill shortages in traditionally male-dominated roles across regional New South Wales," she said.

"Our young women need full access to opportunity and choice.

"They need to feel valued for their diversity, recognised for their contribution and be able to participate in all aspects of their educational and working life freely and safely.”

The NSW Department of Education’s Girls Can Too program seeks to increase participation of young women in trade related training and employment by providing students exposure to trade skills while strengthening industry relationships with local employers such as Murray Irrigation.