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Media Release
TAFE NSW Bathurst | 27 May 2026
Bathurst high schoolers break barriers with construction skills
‘ The Girls Can Too program offers female high schoolers the chance to step outside of traditional career expectations and gain exposure and skills at a time when they’re considering their future.’
Peter Schupfer, TAFE NSW Construction Head Teacher
Students from 2 high schools in the Bathurst region have rolled up their sleeves and dived into the world of construction and manufacturing, as part of a taster program aimed at increasing the number of women in trade-based careers.
Taking place at TAFE NSW Bathurst, Girls Can Too is a unique program that introduces school-aged students to high growth, traditionally male-dominated industries. It teaches essential skills and connects participants to vocational training pathways.
According to the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, more than 15,000 additional construction workers will be needed to support major development projects in the Central West over the next decade.
Twelve Year 10 students from Blayney High School and Denison College of Secondary Education, Kelso High Campus have learnt foundational theory and a range of practical skills across carpentry, bricklaying, tiling, welding and electrical. They were also introduced to industry-aligned tools and machinery.
As part of the 6-week program, participants took part in an industry day where they heard from local businesses, built connections and saw first-hand how training leads to real-world careers.
Peter Schupfer, TAFE NSW Construction Head Teacher, says the program has given students a taste of tradie life, opening the door to some of the region’s most in-demand jobs.
“Projects like the Central West Pumped Hydro development and Bathurst Hospital upgrade are driving demand for skilled workers across the Central West,” said Mr Schupfer.
“The Girls Can Too program offers female high schoolers the chance to step outside of traditional career expectations and gain exposure and skills at a time when they’re considering their future."
“As the region tries to keep pace with rising infrastructure and housing demand, programs like this are key for attracting the next generation of workers to critical industries,” said Mr Schupfer.
Data from the National Centre for Vocational Education Research reveals that almost 96 per cent of students that undertook vocational training in a trade-based industry in 2024 secured employment after completing their studies.
Jacquie Smith, Senior Project Officer, Department of Education, Regional Industry Education Partnerships (RIEP program), says the initiative helps to break down barriers and open doors to rewarding careers.
“Women remain significantly underrepresented across construction and trade industries, particularly in regional areas,” said Ms Smith.
“Girls Can Too offers young women an inclusive learning environment to explore traditionally male-dominated careers, building their confidence and hands-on skills. "
“By showcasing a range of trade-based disciplines and training pathways, students can make informed decisions about their future while helping build a stronger and more diverse workforce for the Central West,” added Ms Smith.
The taster program is a partnership between TAFE NSW and the Department of Education Regional Industry Education Partnerships (RIEP program) and funded by the NSW Department of Education Trade Readiness Program.
The initiative is designed to tackle skill shortages and encourage more women to consider careers in construction, manufacturing and renewable energy.
Media contact: Holly Simpson, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, 02 7920 5000.
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