Bendigo TAFE carpentry teacher Su Hauck is being celebrated nationally for championing a regional-first carpentry program for women and gender-diverse learners in Castlemaine.
Su was awarded the Ally Award at the 2025 Empowered Women in Trades (EWIT) Gala, recognised for trailblazing a safe and inclusive space for learners to build skills and confidence in trades.
The Ally Award is a national honour, recognising individuals who actively champion inclusion by creating space, opportunity, and equity for women and LGBTQI+ individuals in skilled trades.
"It's an honour and pleasure to be involved in the EWIT awards, and I truly appreciate the exposure events such as this brings to a cause close to my heart,” Su said.
“I'm so grateful for all the support and encouragement I've been given along the way."
Su’s leadership in launching the TAFE’s female and gender-diverse construction course was a key factor in her recognition, with the program marking a turning point for inclusive trades education in regional Victoria.
The program responds to a pressing need as construction remains one of the least gender diverse industries in Australia.
Women comprise just 14% of workers in civil construction and 2% for onsite roles – figures that have remained stagnant for a decade.
Conceived by Su, the program was developed in consultation with the local community, specially curated to feature flexible scheduling, targeted skill development and a learning environment built on safety, respect, and belonging.
Participants gain practical, hands-on carpentry skills that can be applied immediately in their homes or used to pursue apprenticeships and employment in the construction industry.
For many, it’s the first step toward financial autonomy, career fulfillment, and breaking free from traditional gender roles.
This award follows Su’s recognition last year as a finalist for the Exceptional Educator Award at the 2024 EWIT Gala, with her impact extending far beyond Castlemaine.
Armed with 15+ years of experience in carpentry, Su has taught in Bendigo TAFE’s Build 10 program, supporting Year 10 students to stay engaged in school while gaining trade skills.
She has also led community carpentry workshops designed for women and gender-diverse people to explore construction.
Quote attributable to Michelle Johnston – Acting CEO of Bendigo TAFE:
“We’re so proud of Su and her work at Bendigo TAFE. Her innovation in education delivery in Castlemaine is a powerful example of how inclusivity and initiative can reshape industries and lives.
Su’s leadership in the trades sector is opening doors for underrepresented learners and strengthening the future of our workforce and community.”
Guided by its Gender Equality Action Plan and the Respect and Equality in TAFE (RET) framework, Bendigo TAFE is committed to helping to break down barriers and build a more diverse, skilled workforce for Victoria’s future.
A proud EWIT alliance member and partner in the Australian Government’s Building Women’s Career Program, Bendigo TAFE works alongside like-minded organisations to increase gender diversity and inclusion across trades.
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