Machinery leader John Deere has thrown its support behind AWIC, a group dedicated to encouraging more women to join the construction sector.

The Awesome Women in Construction (AWIC) is an industry-focused community group which works across all areas of Australia’s construction industry with one goal: the success of the construction industry with women at the table, in the room and on the tools.

John Deere has been a Diamond corporate partner of the AWIC’s annual awards since 2023, and will continue to support this event in 2025.

In 2025, Australia’s construction industry remains a powerhouse of economic growth, contributing over $360 billion to the national economy. Yet, the sector faces a growing challenge: a severe shortage of skilled labour, with a projected shortfall of 250,000 workers over the next five years. While the demand for talent is soaring, women continue to be underrepresented, making up less than 15 per cent of the workforce, and fewer than 5 per cent working directly on-site.

Amanda Bulow, Founder & CEO at Awesome Women in Construction (AWIC), comments, “It is great to see the number of trade schools educating and supporting the next generation. School-based apprenticeships also place a key role in providing a pipeline of skilled workers. Providing access to mentoring from an early stage ensures our next generation of women entering the construction industry understand the extensive community of support they have”.

Trade schools and apprenticeships are playing a crucial role in driving this change, offering women practical, hands-on pathways into the construction sector. These programs are equipping women with the skills, confidence, and real-world experience needed to thrive in a traditionally male-dominated field.

Amanda Bulow, Founder & CEO at Awesome Women in Construction (AWIC), comments, “It is great to see the number of trade schools educating and supporting the next generation. School-based apprenticeships also play a key role in providing a pipeline of skilled workers. Providing access to mentoring from an early stage ensures our next generation of women entering the construction industry understand the extensive community of support they have.”

As the demand for skilled workers intensifies, trade schools and apprenticeships offer an ideal platform for women to gain the expertise and confidence needed to excel in the industry.

With female construction participation reaching a record high in 2024, the issue of skilled labour shortages faces a potential solution

Australia’s construction industry has seen female participation reach a record high in 2024, according to Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ).

Despite this positive outcome, CSQ says women still only represent 17 per cent of the workforce and just five per cent in construction trades.

Australia’s construction industry, long dominated by men, is undergoing a quiet revolution. According to Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ), female participation reached a record high in May 2024, but women still represent only 17% of the workforce and just 5% in construction trades.

Awesome Women in Construction (AWIC) was one of about 100 exhibitors represented at the Capricorn Mega Careers Expo on Thursday.

Awesome Women in Construction (AWIC) was one of about 100 exhibitors represented at the Capricorn Mega Careers Expo on Thursday.

In the fast-paced world of the construction industry, success is often measured by experience and expertise. But have you ever stopped to think about how you gained those skills? Chances are, someone took the time to teach you, to mentor you, and to guide you along the way.

International Women’s Day is a global celebration of the achievements and contributions of women, as well as a reminder of the work that still needs to be done to achieve gender equality. On Friday 1 March, AWIC (Awesome Women in the Community) is hosting its 7th International Women’s Day Lunch, where we will recognise and celebrate the incredible women in our community.