Zeal Futures has launched the Women’s Tradeblazer Program – a new initiative aimed at opening doors for women in trades and supporting long-term participation across the industry.

Starting in September 2025 in the Hunter Region, the program will support 50 women to begin or restart their career journey through apprenticeships and traineeships.

Participants will gain hands-on trade experience with multiple employers, exposure to the fast-growing renewables sector, and work readiness training including employability skills and accredited qualifications. Practical support will include uniforms designed for women, financial counselling, and workplace rotations to help participants find the right fit.

Zeal Futures CEO Sharon Smith said the program’s support networks will be key to its success. These include mentoring from award-winning tradeswomen, counselling, health and wellbeing programs, and literacy and numeracy support.

“Research shows that women are 77% more likely to stay in the industry with the support of a network. That’s where we see the Tradeblazer program having the biggest impact,” Ms Smith said.

IMAGE | Applications for the Tradeblazer pre-apprenticeship program are now open, with 50 spots available for women to begin or restart trade careers.