In one of Victoria’s fastest-growing industries, two award-winning apprentices are proving that women not only belong on the tools – they can lead the way.

Alexandra Thwaites and Kirra Tranter are emerging as powerful role models for young women considering a future in trades.

Earlier this year, they were recognised at the 2025 Master Builders Victoria (MBV) Apprentice of the Year Awards – Alexandra with the Developing Leader Award and Kirra the AIB Florence M. Taylor Award – highlighting the impact of skilled women in a field where they remain vastly underrepresented.

Their stories come at a critical time – construction is Victoria’s second-highest growth industry, with more than 162,000 new workers needed by 2034 to deliver the government’s housing and infrastructure agenda.

Despite this demand, construction remains one of the least gender-diverse industries in Australia. Women make up just 14% of the civil construction workforce and only 2% of onsite roles – figures that have barely shifted in the past ten years.

As young people explore post-secondary options, Alexandra and Kirra are helping to challenge outdated perceptions and inspire more women to consider apprenticeships and vocational training in one of Victoria’s fastest-growing industries.

Here’s a closer look at their stories.

Meet Alexandra Thwaites:

“I’ve always wanted to pursue a career that felt purposeful and fulfilling through hands-on work. Carpentry was the trade I could envision myself doing the most.”

Alexandra’s journey with the tools began with an apprenticeship through Yarrington Construction, and from that moment, she hasn’t looked back. Completing her final practical unit at Bendigo TAFE marked a major milestone.

“It was a great feeling to know that not only had I accomplished my goal of completing this apprenticeship successfully, but also that I was one step further in my career,” she said.

Looking ahead, she sees a long future in the industry.

“I see myself taking on leadership positions and even possibly becoming a registered builder,” she said.

“Learning carpentry has not only given me the practical skills to understand how homes are built, but has also taught me discipline, problem-solving skills and more.”

Alex advises other tradie-hopefuls to explore which trades align with your interests, and target employers offering diverse learning opportunities.

“Have a real think about what you want to gain, what skills you want to learn and what you can honestly see yourself doing,” she said.

“If you're unsure, offer to do work experience or even do a pre-apprenticeship.

“There's no use jumping into something unless you genuinely think you'll enjoy it.”

The course has changed the way she views the world around her.

“Every building I walk into, I’m always observing, analysing, and cataloguing materials and techniques. I really appreciate architecture more now and admire good workmanship.”

Meet Kirra Tranter:

After a stint restoring historic trams in Bendigo and gaining hands-on experience with local builders, Kirra found her calling in carpentry.

“I’ve always loved creating things with my hands, that led me to consider an apprenticeship, and eventually to Fleetwood, where I found not just a job, but a place that valued having a female apprentice.”

Her journey wasn’t without hurdles. After sending out over 30 resumes with little response, Kirra leaned on the support of her family and her determination to persist – eventually finding her place and thriving.

Among the many skills she’s picked up, external cladding remains her favourite.

“It’s when a building really starts to take shape, it’s exciting to see the transformation.”

Now armed with a Certificate IV in Building and Construction from Bendigo TAFE and working towards a Diploma in Project Management, she’s eyeing a future in supervision or project management. Long-term, she hopes to run her own business and mentor the next generation of apprentices.

She has also developed a new appreciation for the built environment.

“I find myself looking at buildings and wondering how they were put together. Overseas, I’ve been fascinated by timber joints that have lasted hundreds of years.”

Quote attributable to Bendigo TAFE CEO Laura Macpherson:

“At Bendigo TAFE, we’re proud to create inclusive, supportive training environments where women can thrive in trades and inspire the next generation to follow.

“We’re proud to see students like Alexandra and Kirra leading the way in construction – a critical industry for our region’s future."