This past July, 16 students from Bracken Ridge State High School (BRSHS) had the opportunity to don welding gloves and goggles and see sparks fly during an exciting, one-day Women in Welding program.
Angela Gilbert, Head of Department for Technologies at BRSHS, explained that opportunities like these were a one-day taster of what the Certificate II in Engineering Pathways offered and gave an insight into future employment options in the construction, manufacturing and engineering industries.
“Glen Packer, Senior Construction and Engineering Pathways teacher, thought of the concept earlier this year after seeing far less female representation in these classes compared to boys,” Angela said. “It struck him that the boys didn’t have any more experience or knowledge – it’s just a stereotype that’s common in the construction industry.”
With support from industry partners, this group of year 10 students were able to create their very own products as a memento from the day.
“Darryl from BOC South Pacific and Chris from Blue Dog provided expertise, equipment and even lunch,” Angela said. “Everyone who attended, from students to staff, thoroughly enjoyed the day and students walked away with a finished product and a sense of pride.”
Empowering Female Students with Hands-On Engineering Experience
Sisters Ava and Charlotte Tracey were two of the students who took part in the program and said that they were excited to have the opportunity to learn a new skill.
“Learning how to actually weld was pretty cool,” Charlotte said.
“The best part was flicking down that helmet and starting the torch,” Ava added. “It was so great to see the end product and feel proud of what we actually created.”
Both Ava and Charlotte agreed that it was beneficial to jump at these types of opportunities when they are offered.
“It isn’t just about welding – there are many aspects to the industry,” they both said. “These skills may not lead to your career path but they can turn into a hobby or just be a really useful life skill.”
Angela said the current year 10 students would be selecting subjects for year 11 in the coming weeks.
“Bracken Ridge is working hard on increasing pathways for students interested in trades and we pride ourselves on helping each student to find their path to success – whether that’s through university, vocational courses, the trade workforce, or a combination of these,” she said.
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