What we Do
We provide support, guidance and connections for female apprentices, students, school leavers, women returning to work and any woman in a trade role, no matter where she is at in her career.
We partner with Government, Industry bodies, training providers and employment initiatives to delivery pathway programs, mentoring support and guidance and Respect@work training.
Whether a woman or non-binary person needs some help getting a start, has been long-term unemployed or underemployed and is looking for a solid career foundation, or an existing apprentice or person in construction needing advice, guidance, support or financial assistance – we are here for everyone.
How we do it
Our Mission
Our mission is to implement real change in the building and construction industry by coordinating programs for women-in-trades across Australia, that enables women and non-binary people to get opportunities for employment, engage in support and mentoring to further their career, and to change the culture on construction that has continued to contribute to large scale attrition and poor retention rates of diverse people.
Our Vision
Our Objectives
- Increase recruitment and sustained engagement of women in skilled trade roles
- Mentor women actively engaged in skilled trade roles through collaborative support of employers and industry; increase retention and facilitate ongoing employment
- Build industry productivity, contributing to broader social and economic gains in priority sector workforces
- Transform the industry, its participants and the culture of construction. Contribute to direct and flow-on economic growth
Accountability
We operate with transparency and integrity
Respect
We honour and support diversity and inclusion
Community
We value and promote partnerships and collaboration
Curiosity
We will always pursue creativity, development, fun and learning
Quality
We pursue excellence and innovation
Empowerment
We are women, supporting and empowering other women to succeed and thrive
Why we do it
Jo's Story
Jo Farrell founded Build Like a Girl with a simple but powerful goal – to create real opportunities for women in construction and to show that there’s a place for everyone on the tools. Driven by her own experiences in the industry, Jo is passionate about breaking down barriers, building confidence, and connecting women with the training and support they need to succeed.
She believes in the strength of community and the importance of visibility – that when women see others thriving in construction, they’re inspired to follow their own path. Through Build Like a Girl, Jo is helping to change perceptions, create pathways, and build a more inclusive future for the industry.
