The future of construction in the Far North Coast involves boosting the number of women in the industry and TAFE NSW is proudly skilling this new workforce.

The 'Pink Chippy' Jess Drady, overcame multiple challenges to complete her Certificate III in Carpentry. Her studies at TAFE NSW gave the 28-year-old the flexibility to achieve her carpentry dream her way and in her own time.

Young women are nailing the building trade, with TAFE NSW Tamworth welcoming its largest contingent of first year female carpentry apprentices in many years. Choosing a flexible approach to training, student Bek Boschma is even combining her apprenticeship with tackling tough subjects like physics and extension maths while she completes her HSC.

Eighteen women are proving age is no barrier to earning a formally recognised skill, thanks to a partnership between TAFE NSW and the Orange Women’s Shed. The women - most aged 60-80 - are getting handy with tools, learning how to do minor home repairs.

TAFE NSW students are applying the final touches to the construction of an incredible two-bedroom house to be auctioned in support of the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation.