How Alex is lighting the way for women in electrotechnology
Women make up just 4% of the electrician workforce in Australia – and Victoria University (VU) electrotechnology student Alex Morales-Alonso is one of the young women determined to break the norm.
Now, more doors are opening than ever before, thanks to the Government’s fee-free TAFE subsidies and large investment in cutting-edge training technology. And along with benefiting from VU’s industry-leading equipment and hands-on learning, Alex is helping forge the current of change within electrotechnology.
For Alex, it’s a big change in environment from high school. But with support easy to find, as well as a hands-on style of learning, it’s one that suits her well.
“All the teachers are really supportive, like my teachers Nick and Adam. They don't make you feel bad for not knowing something, which is my biggest thing, because I didn’t like high school.
“I didn't really feel supported whatsoever with my teachers [in high school]. And I was learning stuff that I didn't really care about, sitting up the back with no interest, whereas here, I actually want to come in and learn and ask questions. Now I'm really enjoying coming to school.
“The wiring prac that we've done today was one of the best things ever. I had a really good time doing it, and it was so hands-on.
“We get to collaborate with each other. We get to actually work, and actually get something out of it, have a final product to say: yeah, I did that, and it worked.”
With her Cert II covered under the free TAFE program, Alex knows that not having to pay a tuition fee for the course means greater access and a diversified industry.
“It’s amazing that VU can offer fee-free TAFE. I believe it not only allows so many more people to get into a trade, but also depicts the point of difference that VU has.
“VU allows people from all walks of life to come and try something new, and give whatever they would like a go.
“Not only allowing those who are underprivileged and may not be able to afford full tuition fees, but also allowing women who may have been deterred from going into the trade due to costs or stereotypes to have a go.”
Industry intel
Gender imbalance within trades is no new story – but it is a tide that’s slowly starting to turn, with nearly 80% more women training as apprentices now in male-dominated trades. Alex is forging a place for herself in an industry ready for change.
“One of the main things for me when I started was being treated the same, not being singled out for being a woman. We're all on the same level here, we're all trying to reach the end goal.
“I like the fact that I'm able to do the same things that males have always been known to do, and I can do it just as well. It's just crazy to me that more women aren't in trade.
“I hope the Free TAFE program encourages more women to do a Certificate II. The course allows for an insight into how the industry really is – and it helps women to gain the courage after completing their Certificate II to work within it.
Now with the confidence and certainty that she’s on the right path, Alex spoke on what her advice would be to a young woman dreaming of entering trades.
“Just go for it, because you're not losing anything. And there are so many trades that you can try out, as many as men do.
As women in trades, we won’t be stopped. It's a male dominated industry now – but women can change that. If you're interested in a trade, do it. I guarantee you there's going to be another girl there in class. And in the future, I hope there are so many more girls and women in the industry. Because we need them.”
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