Learning to build a better future

28 April 2026

Fewer than three per cent of construction workers in NSW are women, but inside Wellington Correctional Centre some very determined women are doing their best to change that.

Through a Women in Construction Program delivered by CSNSW Work & Education – Work Readiness, participants are gaining hands‑on experience, nationally recognised qualifications and a clearer pathway into an industry where women remain under‑represented. The program is opening doors to new skills, confidence and employment opportunities, starting while women are still in custody.

Brave enough to try

“I had no idea there were programs like this for women,” Kylie* said.

“Being part of it has shown me what’s possible and made me want to keep learning.”

Kylie is one of the inmates who went through the program, and she was a little hesitant when she learned that ‘working at heights’ was part of the training. However, with encouragement and support from the other women, centre staff and the trainer she completed the component and is now certified to operate elevating work platforms.

“A few of the women were nervous at first, but the encouragement and patience of the trainer, Joel Thompson from Yakka Training, helped everyone work through every module,” Director of Work Readiness, Kelly Vandine, said.

“With the right support and belief in themselves, these women have a clearer pathway to employment when they return to the community.”

The Women in Construction Program delivers hands-on, accredited training linked to real jobs. Participants gained recognised qualifications, including a White Card and elevating work platform certification, and are supported to move into employment, traineeships or further study during custody and after release, with strong connections to industry and employment partners.

The program is designed specifically for women and is delivered in a culturally safe, trauma‑informed way. By building confidence, skills and meaningful employment pathways, the program also aims to reduce reoffending.

Working experience

For many of those in the training, the sense of achievement at the end of the four days was very emotional, particularly when they received their certificates. 

“I can’t remember the last time I was proud of something I had done, this has really got to me,” Steph said.

“I got through this and pushed myself.”  

Another woman, initially quiet and reserved, “lit up” when asked about the program, saying she was loving the experience and never imagined she would have an opportunity like this.

The women all agreed the training had helped them see new employment possibilities, and one expressed that where her criminal history once felt like a barrier, the program showed her that success is still achievable.

“This has given me confidence I didn’t know I had,” Maria* said.

“I’ve already asked about doing more construction courses and getting more work experience because now I believe it’s possible.”

On the final day, the program wrapped up with employer site visits and a celebration lunch, giving the women the opportunity to connect directly with industry representatives and recognise their achievements.

The program was funded by Verto, a not‑for‑profit organisation offering employment, training and community services that transform people’s lives. Support from employer partners who generously shared their time and insight, including Energy Co and ACEREZ, also helped connect participants with genuine industry experience.

While women remain under‑represented in the construction industry, programs like this show how early access to skills and opportunity can make a real difference. Supporting women to prepare for employment before release helps open pathways back into the community, strengthens reintegration and reduces the risk of reoffending.

*Name changed.