Completing a Certificate III in Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration, Amber Perrott-Jones, Eliza Pereira, Zoe Anderiesen and Melanie Nordsvan are all passionate about their chosen industry.
A third year apprentice, Ms Perrott-Jones says she had always wanted to learn a trade, and was quick to realise this was the perfect career for her.
“The course incorporates a variety of equipment and has both a plumbing and electrical aspects which definitely keeps me engaged and busy,” she said.
While admitting that she’s had a “few strange looks here and there”, 17-year-old Ms Pereira says she also gets plenty of positive feedback and support.
“My brother works in the industry and we used to joke around about me becoming his apprentice,” she said.
“When I was in Year 10, I decided to do work experience in the industry and absolutely loved it.”
Ms Nordsvon also hasn’t looked back since starting her apprenticeship two weeks after completing Year 12 and said the TAFE course had helped expand her skill set.
“I work in truck refrigeration which is quite a niche area in the industry,” she said.
“I really enjoy my job and the complexity of it.”
On track to complete her course in 2020, Ms Anderiesen says working in a male dominated industry can be tough, but added that she’s been lucky to be surrounded by a great group of guys who treat her really well.
“My teachers and classmates at TAFE NSW have been wonderful and the stuff I have been learning really helps me to properly understand what I’m doing in the field, giving me more confidence,” she said.
For more information on TAFE courses, call 131 601 or visit tafensw.edu.au.
Females excel in traditional male class
Granville TAFE’s Air-conditioning and Refrigeration female apprentices - Melanie Nordsvan, Eliza Pereira, Zoe Anderiesen and Amber Perrott-Jones with teacher James Treganowan.
BREAKING into traditionally male dominated trades isn’t easy but four female apprentices at Granville TAFE are blasting their way past stereotypes.
