Women in Trades - Caylee Hartman

Why did you choose your trade? 

I’ve always liked to create things with my hands, and one day, while thinking what I want to do as a career, I thought why not an electrician? It’s a job where I can work with my hands while also stimulating the mind. 

Was it easy to find an apprentice employer? 

For me, finding an employer was surprisingly easy. After I decided to become an electrician, I started my apprenticeship barely a month later. Intract is also an Indigenous contractor, so whenever the opportunity arises, they actively seek to hire more women who are suitably qualified for the role. I am a Ngarrindjeri and Boandik woman. 

Is Tonsley a female friendly environment? If yes, why?  

Yes, I feel it’s a friendly environment, I feel I receive the same treatment as everyone else I have interacted with. 

What’s the best thing about your trade? 

No job is ever exactly the same, so it never gets repetitive. I love those moments when something just clicks, and you suddenly understand how it works. There’s a great sense of satisfaction in seeing the end result and how everything comes together in the end. 

What’s it like working in a male dominated sector? 

A little challenging sometimes but nothing I can’t deal with especially with my employer always willing to have a discussion to solve any problems that might arise. 

Have you felt supported by your lecturers at TAFE SA? If yes, please explain why 

Yes, they have been helpful and friendly -  always willing to explain anything in more detail if anyone does not understand something. 

What are your plans/hopes for your future career / Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time? 

Qualified and confident in my skills as an electrician 

Any other comments? 

I do wish there were more female tradespeople, and it would be great to have a female lecturer as well. It would be inspiring to hear their experiences and perspectives on being a woman in the trades, including how they have handled any discrimination, sexism, or other challenges that may have arisen because of their gender in their chosen career.