About Us
Our Program
The BUSY Sisters mentoring program is specifically designed to support and mentor women to be successful in progressing through their non-traditional apprenticeship or traineeship.
By non-traditional, we mean any apprenticeship or traineeship pathway in a field that is ordinarily male-dominated. For example, Mechanics, Construction Trades, Engineering, Manufacturing, Agriculture and more.
The BUSY Sisters mentoring program is delivered by experienced female tradeswomen who understand the challenges that females entering non-traditional trades face.
The support program offers:
- An individualised 6-month support plan with weekly contact from your mentor
- Resources and information to help you build lifelong workplace skills.
- Connection to a community of other women entering non-traditional trades.
- Career leadership skills and ability assessment through a world-leading assessment tool, Cognisess.
Our Women In Trade Support Officers
Our BUSY Sisters have been there too, proving themselves just as capable as the boys. They now want to support other women entering a non-traditional trade!
Stephanie Gadd, Women in Trades Specialist Supports Officer
Trained as a Painter & Decorator in Denmark, Scandinavia, Stephanie (or better known as Steph) completed her Recognised Prior Learning when she moved to Brisbane Australia. Once qualified in Australia, Steph worked as a painter, eventually owning her own business. In later years she attained her bachelor’s degree in counselling.
Steph believes that all who identify as women deserve the same opportunities that men get in the workforce.
Bringing a counselling and trade background to her role, Steph understands some of the real-life obstacles that women face when working in a non-traditional trade.
“We encourage our apprentices and trainees to reach out if they are encountering difficulties early – so we can offer the support and resources to ensure they successfully complete their qualification.”
Billie-Jo, Women in Automotive Mentor
Billie-Jo began her Light Vehicle Automotive apprenticeship at 18 but transitioned after three years to follow another passion, cooking. She spent a decade as a chef, specialising in Pastry and Desserts, and worked in specialist bakeries towards the end of her career.
Billie-Jo continues to apply the lessons from both trades daily in her mentoring. With the added qualification of a Diploma of Counselling, she supports apprentices in overcoming daily challenges, guiding them in finding meaningful career pathways.
“I remembered things that happened in my own apprenticeship and I can definitely see the value in having someone to talk to and who understands where you’re coming from. Access to programs and resources and our experience in dealing with challenges, that’s important to have.”
Seaneade Armour, Women in Trades Specialists Support Officer
With over a decade of experience in the Vocational, Education, and Training sector, Seaneade specialises in the Resources and Infrastructure industry, particularly Civil Construction and Mining.
Her roles have involved supporting apprentices, disengaged youth, and individuals facing mental health challenges, as well as managing and leading a successful Civil Construction registered training orgranisation. Her commitment to overcoming the barriers of a traditionally male-dominated field has strengthened her focus on gender diversity and teamwork.
Nominated for the Women in Civil 2024 award and a guest speaker at many diversity and women’s events, Seaneade strives to be a role model for women in male-dominated industries, advocating for passion and inclusivity for all, regardless of gender, title, or beliefs.
Outside of work, Seaneade is adventurous and thrives on adrenaline, whether it’s four-wheel driving, coastal motorbike rides, or racing at Perth’s Carco Raceway.
“My motto is ‘If he can, so can I,’ which inspires me to get out there and just give it a go!”
Zoey Heather, Women in Trades Specialist Supports Officer
With extensive experience in the employment and apprenticeship sector, Zoey has dedicated herself to helping individuals from diverse backgrounds secure sustainable, long-term employment. Her expertise spans career guidance, interview skills training, and reverse marketing candidates, all aimed at fostering professional growth and success.
In her role within a Bricklaying Industry Body, I have championed apprenticeship pathways across Victoria and Tasmania, achieving a notable 3% increase in female participation in bricklaying apprenticeships in those two states.
Zoey’s passion for coaching and supporting people was ignited during her tenure as a retail store manager and has flourished throughout her career in the apprenticeship sector.
Zoey is also undertaking a Diploma in Counselling and looks forward to supporting women to enter the career path of their choice.
Rachael Fisher, Women in Trades Specialist Supports Officer
Rachael completed her Certificate III in Commercial Cookery from Year 10 to 12 at TAFE, attending classes one night a week while juggling two jobs and living independently as a teen.
Despite these challenges, she earned her VCE and pursued a career in commercial kitchens, experiencing both supportive and challenging environments.
Transitioning to management and leadership for development roles in franchises, Rachael spent years mentoring employees in life skills and education, earning accolades for training and fostering partnerships with organisations. This then led her to the world of Training and Assessment and then onto the apprenticeship services space where she has worked with apprentices, trainees and industry employers to create opportunities.
“My career journey to date has fueled my passion for mentoring and supporting others, particularly women, in achieving their goals.”
Kat Talty, Women in Automotive Trades Mentor
Kat is the Women in Automotive Trades Mentor for North Queensland. With a background in Heavy Diesel Fitting, Kat predominately worked at a mine in the Bowan Basin.
Kat is incredibly passionate about supporting women through their apprenticeships as she has first-hand experience with being an apprentice.
“Women bring so many positives to any workplace, and I am so excited to be supporting them through their apprenticeships.”
Based out of Mackay, Kat will be looking after female apprentices from Central and North Queensland.
Kate Shapiro, Women in Trades Specialist Support Officer
Kate has always enjoyed learning about people, especially when it comes to their career interests. This interest led her to complete a Bachelor and Honours degree in Psychological Science and Research where her interest turned into a passion for wanting to help others in their careers, helping them find the right fit for them.
Her role as a mentor allows her to action her genuine passion in helping empower women in male-dominated trades, supporting and mentoring women across a variety of ages and backgrounds into the trade of their choice.
“Being able to have a genuine connection with women in these spaces is incredibly empowering and inspiring. I feel that we are changing the future for women who want to enter trades and creating opportunities and inspiration for more women to pursue the career path of their choice!”