Former St Eugene High school student (Burpengary), Emily Welfare has broken new ground in the battle for equality by becoming the first female apprentice to be signed up straight from school with Caboolture based company, Breezeview Windows.
The company manufactures windows and doors and security screens for commercial high rise and residential buildings.
BUSY At Work Industry Training Consultant – Brisbane, Selina Green said Emily was signed up on International Women’s Day for her Certificate III in Glass and Glazing.
“We have been working with Breezeview signing their apprentices since 2012 and it is great to see their support for women in the trades particularly during Queensland Women’s Week this week.”
The enthusiastic and energetic 18 year old who commenced with the company three weeks ago is very much enjoying the hands-on aspect that comes with working in a busy factory.
“While Breezeview have previously taken on a mature aged female apprentice we are delighted to see a young female not only getting a start but performing well in a traditionally male dominated production role,” Ms Green said.
“Emily has shown a great attitude and work ethic and is always willing to learn new skills in the trade. She has fitted in very well with other members of the team and we are keen to see her have a successful career with our company,” Mr essenger said.
As part of her training Emily has been learning about on-the-job safety and the correct use of tools such as drills, hand saws and routers.
Having just finished Year 12, Emily said she was thoroughly enjoying the working environment at the factory and learning how to fabricate windows and doors.
“I love the hands-on aspect of the job and am feeling more confident each day. I would not feel comfortable sitting around a desk in an office and I’m thankful that all the guys treat me as one of their own,” Ms Welfare said.
Emily said her dad had been especially encouraging and was happy to see her work in a non traditional role.
While very happy with her current role, Emily said in the future she would like to do further studies to become a paramedic.
BUSY At Work, CEO Paul Miles said that BUSY was pleased to support local employers who were willing to give people like Emily an opportunity to work in what was traditionally a male dominated industry.
“Emily has shown a willingness to learn and is proving to be very capable and diligent in the workplace. With continued training and mentoring she will make a valuable contribution to her employer,” Mr Miles said.
As part of Queensland Women’s Week, the Queensland Government announced a new strategy to target key concerns for Queensland women.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said her Government was dedicated to removing barriers preventing women and girls achieving their goals either at work or in the community.
To find out more about apprenticeship opportunities call 13 BUSY 13 28 79 or go to www.busyatwork.com.au.
MEDIA CONTACT: Leanne Macnamara, Public Relations Coordinator
0438 173 960 leanne.macnamara@busyatwork.com.au
